Some diseases result from defective transport across the membrane. For example, cystic fibrosis results when a chloride ion transporter does not function. Which of the following is affected when this transporter does NOT function?
A)the chloride concentration gradient
B)the electrical gradient of the cell
C)both the chloride concentration gradient and the electrical gradient of the cell
D)neither the chloride gradient nor the electrical gradient of the cell

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When the chloride ion transporter does not function in cystic fibrosis, the concentration gradient of chloride ions is disrupted as they cannot pass through the membrane. This, in turn, disrupts the electrical gradient of the cell as chloride ions play a crucial role in balancing the charge of other ions inside and outside of the cell. Therefore, both the chloride concentration gradient and the electrical gradient of the cell are affected.

Some Diseases Result from Defective Transport Across the Membrane