in what way does spindle fiber dynamics and microtubule attachment regulate cell cycle checkpoints

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. How do spindle fiber dynamics and microtubule attachment regulate cell cycle checkpoints?

A. Misaligned chromosomes fail to attach to microtubules, triggering a delay in anaphase onset.
B. The presence of unattached kinetochores on the centromeres sends a signal to pause cell cycle progression.
C. Microtubule instability and rapid depolymerization lead to the activation of checkpoint proteins.
D. All of the above.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A) Misaligned chromosomes fail to attach to microtubules, triggering a delay in anaphase onset: Proper attachment of chromosomes to spindle fibers is essential for accurate segregation of genetic material during cell division. Misaligned chromosomes that fail to attach to microtubules can lead to delays in anaphase onset, allowing the cell to correct errors before proceeding with division. B) The presence of unattached kinetochores on the centromeres sends a signal to pause cell cycle progression: Kinetochores at the centromeres help attach chromosomes to spindle fibers. When kinetochores are unattached or improperly attached to microtubules, they signal the cell to pause cell cycle progression, ensuring proper chromosome alignment before division. C) Microtubule instability and rapid depolymerization lead to the activation of checkpoint proteins: While microtubule dynamics are crucial for cell division, microtubule instability and rapid depolymerization can disrupt chromosome attachment. However, this mechanism is not directly related to the activation of cell cycle checkpoint proteins, making this statement incorrect. Therefore, choices A and B accurately describe how spindle fiber dynamics and microtubule attachment regulate cell cycle checkpoints, making option D the correct answer.

2. What is the primary function of the cell membrane?

A. To provide structural support for the cell
B. To transport substances in and out of the cell
C. To synthesize proteins and lipids
D. To store genetic material

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the cell membrane, also known as the plasma membrane, is to regulate the movement of substances in and out of the cell. It acts as a selectively permeable barrier, allowing specific molecules to pass through while blocking others. This role is crucial for maintaining the internal environment of the cell by enabling essential nutrients to enter and waste products to exit. While the cell membrane provides some structural support for the cell, its main function is substance transport. Protein and lipid synthesis predominantly occur in organelles like the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus, and storing genetic material is the nucleus's responsibility. Therefore, choices C (To synthesize proteins and lipids) and D (To store genetic material) are incorrect as these functions are carried out by other cell organelles, not the cell membrane.

3. What is the role of RNA in the regulation of gene expression?

A. Provides energy for the process
B. Controls the timing and location of protein synthesis
C. Translates the genetic code into amino acids
D. Stores genetic information

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A) RNA does not provide energy for the process of gene expression. Energy is typically provided by molecules like ATP. B) RNA plays a crucial role in controlling the timing and location of protein synthesis through processes like transcriptional regulation, RNA splicing, and post-transcriptional modifications. It helps determine when and where specific proteins are produced in the cell. C) While mRNA translates the genetic code into amino acids during the process of translation, this is not the primary role of RNA in the regulation of gene expression. D) RNA does not store genetic information in the same way that DNA does. DNA is the molecule responsible for storing genetic information in the form of genes. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate choice as it accurately describes the role of RNA in regulating gene expression.

4. What is the role of the spleen in the body?

A. To produce bile
B. To filter blood and remove old red blood cells
C. To produce red blood cells
D. To store fat

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The spleen acts as a blood filter, removing old or damaged red blood cells. It also plays a role in immune responses, storing blood reserves, and helping to fight infection. The production of bile is primarily associated with the liver, not the spleen. While the bone marrow is responsible for red blood cell production, the spleen's main functions do not include this process. Storing fat is not a primary function of the spleen.

5. What is the basic structural and functional unit of the kidney?

A. Neuron
B. Nephron
C. Glomerulus
D. Axon

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Nephron. The nephron is indeed the basic structural and functional unit of the kidney. It is responsible for filtering blood, regulating electrolytes, maintaining fluid balance, and removing waste products. Choice A, Neuron, is incorrect as neurons are nerve cells, not specific to kidney function. Choice C, Glomerulus, is a component of the nephron but not the entire functional unit. Choice D, Axon, is a part of nerve cells and is not related to kidney structure or function.