BMAT Biology: The Cell (Part 6)

The Ultimate Challenge: Synoptic & Philosophical Problems.

Problem 51: The Mitochondrial Cascade Catastrophe

Hard
MitochondriaATPExocytosisSynoptic

A patient's disorder, caused by a mutation in mitochondrial DNA affecting ATP synthase, causes muscle fatigue and failed insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells. Which statement best explains this wide range of symptoms?

A

Lack of ATP directly prevents insulin synthesis on ribosomes and blocks muscle contraction.

B

The mutation causes a global shutdown of all cellular processes equally in all cells.

C

Lack of ATP impairs the Na+/K+ pump, preventing glucose uptake and muscle contraction.

D

Lack of ATP impairs energy-intensive processes: exocytosis of insulin vesicles and the myosin-actin cycle in muscle cells.