Cyanide poisons mitochondria by blocking the final step in the electron transport chain. Human red blood cells placed in an isotonic solution containing cyanide are likely to
A) retain the normal cell shape, but the mitochondria will be poisoned.
B) lyse as the cyanide concentration increases inside the cell.
C) switch to anaerobic metabolism.
D) become unable to carry oxygen.
E) be unaffected.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Human red blood cells do not contain mitochondria, so they would be unaffected by cyanide's action on the electron transport chain. They rely on glycolysis for their energy needs.

Cyanide Poisons Mitochondria by Blocking the Final Step in the Electron