The proper cellular ATP levels are critical for almost all cell function (~1mM i
ID: 209747 • Letter: T
Question
The proper cellular ATP levels are critical for almost all cell function (~1mM in the cytoplasm). In this problem set you will propose different mechanisms how a cell could regulate and maintain this ATP level. Your proposed mechanisms don't have to exist (do not read up online about the way cells regulate ATP levels!). But the mechanisms should be plausible and based on what you learned in the lectures about ATP, regulatory mechanisms and mitochondrial metabolism. All regulatory systems you need first a sensor that can identify a drop in ATP levels. Second you need an "executioner" that can receive the information from the sensor and execute a change to stabilize ATP levels. In your answers both describe briefly the mechanism and draw your proposed system. Your answers cannot include regulation of the ATP synthase or the electron transport chain (no direct regulation or changes in expression). These proteins are known to be highly stable and unlikely to be regulated.
Sensor: Propose 2 different mechanisms that could be used to detect a drop in cellular ATP levels.
Explanation / Answer
Adenosine 5-triphosphate (ATP) is the energy currency of all living organisms. The high phosphate-transfer potential of ATP is used in many biological processes - muscle contraction, synthesis and degradation of biological molecules, and membrane transport. ATP also acts as an intracellular or extracellular signaling molecule in cellular processes, such as insulin secretion, neurotransmission, cell motility , and organ development.
Mechanism to detect the cellular ATP levels:
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