A researcher is studying a cell line with a mutation that reduces the activity of cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterase (PDE). What effect would this mutation likely have on cAMP levels and cellular signaling?

• A. No change in cAMP levels, as PDE does not affect cAMP.
• B. Increased cAMP levels, leading to inhibition of signaling pathways.
• C. Increased cAMP levels, leading to prolonged activation of signaling pathways.
• D. Decreased cAMP levels, leading to reduced activation of signaling pathways.

Answer: (C)