Three phospholipids, X, Y, and Z, are distributed in the plasma membrane as indicated in Figure 11-10.For which of these phospholipids does a flippase probably exist? Figure 11-10

Question

Three phospholipids, X, Y, and Z, are distributed in the plasma membrane as indicated in Figure 11-10.For which of these phospholipids does a flippase probably exist?  Figure 11-10

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A flippase is an enzyme responsible for flipping phospholipids from one side of the membrane to the other. In the plasma membrane, phospholipids are asymmetrically distributed, with different phospholipids present on the inner and outer leaflets. Phospholipids X and Y are both present on the outer leaflet, while phospholipid Z is present on the inner leaflet. Therefore, a flippase would only be necessary for phospholipids X and Y to move them to the inner leaflet, making choice C the best answer.

Three Phospholipids, X, Y, and Z, Are Distributed in the Plasma