When a membrane is prepared by freeze-fracture and examined under the electron microscope, the exposed interior of the membrane bilayer appears to be covered with bumps. These bumps are
A) integral membrane proteins.
B) ice crystals.
C) platinum.
D) organelles.
E) vesicles.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The bumps observed on the interior of the membrane bilayer in freeze-fracture electron microscopy are integral membrane proteins. Freeze-fracture allows for the separation of the lipid bilayer, revealing the proteins embedded within it. These proteins appear as bumps or ridges on the fractured surface.

When a Membrane Is Prepared by Freeze-Fracture and Examined Under