2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) is an uncoupler thata)cannot freely pass throu...
Answer:
Introduction:
2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) is a chemical compound that acts as an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria. It disrupts the normal flow of protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane, leading to a decrease in ATP production.
Explanation:
DNP cannot freely pass through the plasma membrane:
DNP is a hydrophobic compound that cannot freely pass through the hydrophilic plasma membrane. Therefore, it requires a specific transport mechanism to enter the cell.
DNP enhances ATP production:
This statement is incorrect. DNP actually decreases ATP production by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation. Normally, during oxidative phosphorylation, the electron transport chain pumps protons across the inner mitochondrial membrane, creating a proton gradient. This gradient is then used by ATP synthase to produce ATP. However, DNP disrupts this process by making the inner mitochondrial membrane leaky to protons.
DNP is a non-toxic compound at high doses:
This statement is also incorrect. DNP is highly toxic and can cause severe adverse effects, including hyperthermia, sweating, tachycardia, and even death. It has been used as a weight-loss drug in the past, but its use has been banned due to its dangerous side effects.
DNP makes the inner mitochondrial membrane leaky to protons:
This statement is correct. DNP acts as an uncoupler by making the inner mitochondrial membrane leaky to protons. This means that protons can freely cross the membrane without going through ATP synthase. As a result, the energy generated by the electron transport chain is dissipated as heat instead of being used to produce ATP.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, 2,4-Dinitrophenol (DNP) is a toxic compound that acts as an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation in mitochondria. It cannot freely pass through the plasma membrane, decreases ATP production by making the inner mitochondrial membrane leaky to protons, and is highly toxic at high doses.