Gating of Ion Channels Means That The

Question

Gating of ion channels means that the
A) Specificity of ion conductance is determined by a gate
B) Channels appear to have gates that are opened sometimes, and closed at other times
C) Channels behave like sieves
D) Channels are like circular pipes with pressure-operated valves
E) Opening of the channels is metabolically controlled

Accepted Answer

Gating of ion channels refers to the mechanism by which channels can switch between open and closed states, allowing or preventing the flow of ions across the cell membrane. This process is not about the physical structure (like sieves or pipes) or the metabolic control of the opening, but rather the functional ability to open or close in response to specific signals or conditions.