- #1
TytoAlba95
- 132
- 19
- Homework Statement
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- Relevant Equations
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Please give me clues as to how to solve this question.
The answer provided is (c).
You've been at the PF long enough to know that you have to show some effort. Since "Relevant Equations" doesn't apply to this type of question, how about you define all of the terms in this question? Then tell us your initial thoughts on how to figure this out...SanjuktaGhosh said:Homework Statement:: -
Relevant Equations:: -
View attachment 264821
Please give me clues as to how to solve this question.
The answer provided is (c).
I agree with your answer to a point. The generic schematic of the vesicle bilayer doesn’t allow us to make a sweeping generalization that substitution of a neutral endgroup for the positive endgroup would result in a better reconstitution (meaning a return of protein’s activity here). If we consider the bilayer is composed of DOPC, the most prevalent lipid bilayer component found in animal systems, you will notice the headgroup is positively charged.SanjuktaGhosh said:I'm sorry to have broken the code, but it is true that I'm clueless. Okay...I'll still try writing something.
What could reconstitution mean in this context? A protein in a solution with liposomes trying to incorporate itself into their membrane?
Now that I know the correct option and if I think backwards, having the positive charge removed will be beneficial to incorporate the protein. Because lipid bilayer is not permeable to charged species, so a neutral C-terminal followed by a hydrophilic region will easily enter into the membrane.
Am I right?
The process of inserting a protein into a liposome membrane involves first creating a liposome, which is a small spherical vesicle made of lipids. The protein is then mixed with the liposome and through a process called reconstitution, the protein is inserted into the liposome membrane. This can occur spontaneously or with the help of specialized proteins called transmembrane proteins.
Insertion of a protein into a liposome membrane can serve various purposes, such as creating a model system for studying cell membranes, delivering drugs or genetic material into cells, or creating artificial cells for biotechnological applications.
The efficiency of protein insertion into a liposome membrane can be affected by factors such as the size and composition of the liposome, the type and properties of the protein being inserted, and the method of insertion used.
No, not all proteins can be inserted into a liposome membrane. Only proteins that have a specific structure and properties, such as transmembrane proteins or amphipathic proteins, can be successfully inserted into the liposome membrane.
Generally, there are no significant risks associated with inserting a protein into a liposome membrane. However, if the protein being inserted is toxic or harmful, there may be potential risks associated with its use in certain applications.