What is most likely true about β-catenin?

Master the AAMC Biological and Biochemical Foundations of Living Systems (BB) exam with multiple choice questions, detailed explanations, and strategic study tips. Enhance your test readiness today!

The assertion that β-catenin contains a nuclear localization sequence is most accurate. β-catenin is a crucial player in the Wnt signaling pathway, which involves the translocation of the protein into the nucleus where it functions as a transcriptional co-activator. For this role, proteins need specific sequences, termed nuclear localization signals (NLS), that facilitate their transport through the nuclear pore complex into the nucleus.

The presence of an NLS is essential for β-catenin's function because it allows the protein to exert its effects on gene expression by facilitating its accumulation in the nucleus during Wnt signaling. This is a critical aspect of its role in developmental processes and in maintaining cellular functions.

The other statements may not accurately reflect the characteristics of β-catenin. While β-catenin does interact with various proteins, it is not composed of multiple subunits in the same sense as multimeric proteins. Its structure is relatively compact and does not heavily rely on disulfide bonds, as it is more dependent on other types of structural stabilization. Lastly, while it may have some nonpolar residues, a high proportion of surface-exposed nonpolar residues would not be characteristic for a protein that interacts with various signaling molecules and localizes

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy