Which process will occur if a cell needs to acquire cholesterol from the surrounding environment?
A) The cell membrane will form vesicles to trap cholesterol.
B) The cell membrane will allow cholesterol to diffuse into the cytoplasm.
C) The cell's integral membrane proteins will actively transport the cholesterol.
D) The cell membrane will take up cholesterol molecules via phagocytosis.
E) The cell will insert specific receptors for cholesterol into its membrane.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The best choice is E. This is because cells can insert specific receptors into their membrane that are designed to recognize and bind to cholesterol molecules. These receptors then bring the cholesterol into the cell via endocytosis. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not involve specific recognition or transport mechanisms for cholesterol. Choice C is incorrect because although integral membrane proteins can transport molecules across membranes, they typically require energy input to do so, and it is unclear whether cholesterol transport would involve these proteins.

Which Process Will Occur If a Cell Needs to Acquire