Transmembrane proteins that transport ions, called \"ionophores,\" are often rin

Question

Transmembrane proteins that transport ions, called "ionophores," are often rings of alpha helices that form a pore. These helices have some amino acid side chains facing the core of the phospholipid membrane, and some facing the pore side where ions pass through. The images below show a three-dimensional model of one such ionophore embedded in a phospholipid membrane. This ionophore enables the transport of potassium ions across membranes.

Which of the following would you predict about the amino acids that make up this pore?

1 The side chains facing the phospholipids are hydrophilic, while those facing into the pore are hydrophobic.

2 The side chains facing the phospholipids are hydrophobic, while those facing into the pore are hydrophilic.

3 The side chains facing both the phospholipids and into the pore are hydrophobic.

4 The side chains facing both the phospholipids and into the pore are hydrophilic.

Explanation / Answer

Since the tail of the phospholipids is hydrophobic in nature, therefore, the side chains facing the phospholipids are hydrophobic, while those facing into the pore are hydrophilic and hence option (2) is correct.

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