The specificity of ion channels for the ions they transport is
A) a result of gating of the channel.
B) independent of the size of the ion.
C) a result of the characteristics of the channel protein.
D) a result of the carbohydrates attached to the channel protein.
E) dependent only on the charge of the ion.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The specificity of ion channels for the ions they transport is dependent on the characteristics of the channel protein, specifically the size and charge of the ion binding site within the channel. This allows for selective transport of certain ions and exclusion of others, based on their ability to fit and interact with the binding site. Gating of the channel and carbohydrates attached to the channel protein may play a role in the regulation or stabilization of the channel, but do not directly determine ion specificity.

The Specificity of Ion Channels for the Ions They Transport