Q: What are examples of active transport proteins?
A: A carrier protein that uses ATP or K+ + NA+ pump.
To find examples of active transport proteins, you can start by understanding the concept of active transport. Active transport is the movement of molecules or ions across a cell membrane against their concentration gradient, meaning they are moving from an area of low concentration to an area of high concentration. This process requires the expenditure of energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate).
One example of an active transport protein is the ATP-powered carrier protein. This type of protein uses ATP to actively transport molecules across the cell membrane. One well-known example of such a protein is the sodium-potassium pump, also known as the NA+K+ ATPase. It transports sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell and potassium ions (K+) into the cell, against their concentration gradients.
Another example of an active transport protein is the proton pump. Proton pumps actively transport hydrogen ions (H+) across membranes, such as the ones found in the stomach lining. This process is essential for the production of stomach acid.
In summary, examples of active transport proteins include ATP-powered carrier proteins like the sodium-potassium pump and proton pumps like those found in the stomach lining. These proteins use ATP as a source of energy to move molecules or ions against their concentration gradients.