The picture below depicts the events that lead to insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells.
*KATP channel- ATP-sensitive K+ channel; VDCC- voltage-dependent Ca2+ channel
Which of the following statements holds true:
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Correct Answer: C. depolarization of the beta cell membrane leads to an increased level of intracellular Ca2+
To begin, glucose is transported into the beta cell. As a result of glucose metabolism, ATP molecules are generated. An increased level of ATP inhibits the KATP channel, preventing entrance of K+ ions into the cell. The consequence of this action is depolarization of the cell membrane and subsequent activation of the VDCC. Ca2+ ions enter into the cell stimulating exocytosis of insulin. This is a great example of an application question in the biology section of the DAT.
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