[Campbell Biology P.277] According to the text, what is the most significant advantage confe... | Practice Question

According to the text, what is the most significant advantage conferred by scaffolding proteins in cellular signaling pathways?

  • A: They allow a cell to respond to a broader range of extracellular signaling molecules by diversifying receptor types.
  • B: They increase the overall efficiency and accuracy of signal transduction by physically bringing together relevant relay proteins.
  • C: They directly activate primary membrane receptors, thus bypassing the need for a signaling molecule.
  • D: They facilitate the immediate breakdown of relay molecules after signal transmission, preventing prolonged responses.

Explanation

The text states: 'the efficiency of signal transduction is apparently increased by the presence of scaffolding proteins, large relay proteins to which several other relay proteins are simultaneously attached Figure 11.18 . ...This hardwiring enhances the speed and accuracy of signal transfer between cells because the rate of protein-protein interaction is not limited by diffusion.' This clearly highlights increased efficiency and accuracy as the main advantages.