Which of the Following is True Regarding Membrane Function

Question

Which of the following is true regarding membrane function?
A) a caveola contains a very high concentration of cholesterol and unsaturated phospholipids
B) scaffolding proteins, particularly those containing BAR domains, result in curvature of the cell membrane
C) lateral membrane diffusion within a biological membrane is a completely unrestricted process
D) membrane fusion with vesicles is often accomplished with the aid of a SNARE protein
E) both b and d are correct

Accepted Answer

Choice A is incorrect because caveolae contain a high concentration of cholesterol, but usually have more saturated phospholipids than unsaturated phospholipids. Choice B is correct because scaffolding proteins like BAR domains can induce membrane curvature. Choice C is incorrect because lateral diffusion is restricted by the presence of membrane proteins and obstacles like the cytoskeleton. Choice D is correct because SNARE proteins play a critical role in membrane fusion events. Therefore, both B and D are correct, making E the best choice.