Some drugs are now being delivered into cells through liposomes, in which the drug is surrounded by a phospholipid bilayer. How do the drugs enter into the cell?
A)The drug destroys the liposome and diffuses into the cell.
B)The liposome cuts a hole in the cell membrane and injects the drug into the cell.
C)The liposome fuses with the phospholipid bilayer of the cell.
D)Protein channels on the cell surface transport the liposomes into the cell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The liposome, being made up of phospholipids, can fuse with the phospholipid bilayer of the target cell, allowing the drug to enter the cell. This process is called endocytosis. Option A is incorrect because the drug is protected by the liposome and does not destroy it. Option B is also incorrect because the liposome does not cut a hole in the cell membrane. Option D is incorrect because protein channels transport small molecules, not liposomes.

Some Drugs Are Now Being Delivered into Cells Through Liposomes