The Question is from neet-botany , and it was created by the author Mr. NARESH KUMAR K

Question

A mutation affects a eukaryotic cell's ability to add mannose-6-phosphate tags to proteins.  Which organelle's function would be MOST directly compromised?

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Protein Targeting and Lysosomal Function
 **Related Topics**: Post-translational modifications, organelle function, lysosomal enzymes
 **Prerequisites**: Understanding of protein trafficking mechanisms in eukaryotic cells, the role of lysosomes in cellular degradation.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
A mutation prevents the addition of mannose-6-phosphate tags to proteins.
**Method & Steps**:
1. Identify the role of mannose-6-phosphate tags.
  Reasoning: Mannose-6-phosphate (M6P) tags are crucial for targeting lysosomal enzymes to lysosomes.  Proteins destined for the lysosome are tagged with M6P in the Golgi apparatus.  Receptor proteins in the trans-Golgi network recognize these tags, binding to them and initiating the transport of the tagged proteins to the lysosome via vesicles.
  Formula/Rule: No formula is directly applicable here; this is a conceptual understanding problem.
2. Determine the consequence of impaired M6P tagging.
  Working: If a cell cannot add M6P tags, lysosomal enzymes will not be correctly targeted to the lysosome.  They may be secreted from the cell or end up in other organelles, leading to malfunction.
  Key Point:  The M6P tag is specific to lysosomal enzymes.  Other organelles have different targeting mechanisms.
3. Identify the organelle most directly affected.
  Result: The lysosome is the organelle most directly affected because it relies on M6P tagging for receiving its essential hydrolytic enzymes.  Without these enzymes, the lysosome cannot effectively perform its function of degrading cellular waste.
  Verification: The other organelles (nucleus, peroxisome, mitochondrion) have their own specific protein targeting mechanisms and are not directly dependent on M6P tagging.
## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: The nucleus is involved in gene expression and DNA replication; it's not directly involved in lysosomal enzyme targeting.
B :x: Peroxisomes are involved in oxidative reactions and lipid metabolism; they are not directly affected by M6P tagging.
C ✓: Lysosomes are responsible for degrading cellular waste and require M6P-tagged enzymes for their function; this is the most direct consequence of the mutation.
D :x: Mitochondria are involved in energy production through cellular respiration; they are not directly affected by M6P tagging.
## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing M6P tagging with other protein targeting signals:  Remember that M6P is specific to lysosomal enzymes.
  2.Failing to understand the consequences of impaired protein targeting:  Consider the functional consequences of mis-localized or absent enzymes.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Focus on the specific role of M6P tags in lysosomal enzyme targeting.
  2.Remember the key functions of each organelle to eliminate incorrect options.

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Nucleus

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Peroxisome

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

The correct Option is "Lysosome"

Mr. NARESH KUMAR K · Answer

Mitochondrion

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