Q13. Beta cells in the pancreas produce and secrete the protein hormone insulin. You would expect to see a relatively large amount of which organelles in these cells?

Background

Topic: Cell Biology & Protein Synthesis

This question tests your understanding of which cellular organelles are abundant in cells that synthesize and secrete proteins, such as insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.

Key Terms and Concepts:

• Rough Endoplasmic Reticulum (RER): Site of protein synthesis, especially for proteins destined for secretion.

• Golgi Apparatus: Modifies, sorts, and packages proteins for secretion.

• Insulin: A protein hormone produced and secreted by beta cells.

• Other organelles: Smooth ER (lipid synthesis), lysosomes (digestion), mitochondria (energy), cilia (movement), cytoskeleton (structure), peroxisomes (detoxification).

Step-by-Step Guidance

1. Recall that insulin is a protein hormone, so its synthesis involves ribosomes and the rough endoplasmic reticulum (RER).

2. Proteins synthesized in the RER are transported to the Golgi apparatus for further modification and packaging before secretion.

3. Consider which organelles are directly involved in the synthesis and secretion of proteins, rather than those involved in other cellular functions (e.g., energy production, movement, or detoxification).

4. Review the answer choices and identify which pair of organelles is most relevant to protein synthesis and secretion.

5. Set up your reasoning: Which organelles would be abundant in cells specialized for producing and exporting proteins?

Try solving on your own before revealing the answer!