Which of the following is probably the main factor responsible for the phenomenon of density-dependent inhibition?
a. a local accumulation of growth-inhibiting factors
b. a local deficiency of nutrients
c. cells' inate "sense" of knowing when the organ of which they are apart has no need for additional cells
d. a shortage of growthfactors
e. none of the choices are correct
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Density-dependent_inhibition
I believe that it is none of the choices. I have read the chapter, and I am not 100% sure, but a,b,c, or d just don't seem right.
The correct answer is option c. cells' innate "sense" of knowing when the organ of which they are a part has no need for additional cells.
To determine the main factor responsible for the phenomenon of density-dependent inhibition, we need to understand the concept first. Density-dependent inhibition refers to the phenomenon where cells stop dividing and growing when they come into contact with other cells, leading to a balance in cell population.
To select the correct answer, let's analyze each option:
a. a local accumulation of growth-inhibiting factors: This option suggests that the presence of growth-inhibiting factors in the local environment is responsible for density-dependent inhibition. This is a plausible explanation as the local accumulation of inhibitory substances can hinder cell growth.
b. a local deficiency of nutrients: This option suggests that the local deficiency of nutrients is responsible for density-dependent inhibition. While nutrient deficiency can impact cell growth, it may not be the main factor responsible for density-dependent inhibition.
c. cells' innate "sense" of knowing when the organ of which they are apart has no need for additional cells: This option posits that cells have a natural ability to determine when an organ does not require additional cells. This is an unlikely explanation as cells do not possess conscious decision-making abilities.
d. a shortage of growth factors: This option suggests that a shortage of growth factors is responsible for density-dependent inhibition. Growth factors play a crucial role in cell growth and division, and a shortage of them can trigger density-dependent inhibition.
e. none of the choices are correct: This option implies that none of the given choices are the main factors responsible for density-dependent inhibition.
Based on the analysis, the most plausible answer is (a) a local accumulation of growth-inhibiting factors, as it aligns with the concept of density-dependent inhibition. However, it's important to note that other factors may also contribute to this phenomenon.