Suppose it is true that potato plants use uncoupling proteins in a way similar to how mammals use them. What would a researcher expect to observe in these plants?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Uncoupling proteins in mammals are known to generate heat by dissipating the proton gradient across the mitochondrial membrane, which is otherwise used for ATP synthesis. If potato plants use uncoupling proteins in a similar manner, one would expect an increase in internal tissue temperature as a result of this process, rather than ATP production, since the energy from the proton gradient is released as heat.

Suppose It Is True That Potato Plants Use Uncoupling Proteins