ABC transpoer ?
**Core Concept**
The ABC (ATP-binding cassette) transporter is a type of membrane protein that uses energy from ATP hydrolysis to transport various substrates across cell membranes. P-glycoprotein is a specific example of an ABC transporter involved in multidrug resistance.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
P-glycoprotein, also known as MDR1, is an ABC transporter that utilizes the energy from ATP hydrolysis to efflux a wide range of substrates, including chemotherapeutic agents, out of cells. This results in decreased intracellular concentrations of these drugs, contributing to multidrug resistance in cancer cells. The mechanism of action of P-glycoprotein involves the binding of ATP to the nucleotide-binding domains (NBDs), which drives the conformational change of the transporter and facilitates the efflux of substrates.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B:** Membrane sparing refers to the preservation of cellular membrane integrity in response to cellular stress, not related to ABC transporters.
**Option C:** Channels are another type of membrane protein that facilitate the diffusion of ions and small molecules across cell membranes, distinct from ABC transporters.
**Option D:** Adenylyl cyclase is an enzyme involved in the production of cyclic AMP (cAMP) from ATP, not related to ABC transporters.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
P-glycoprotein is not only a key player in multidrug resistance but also plays a role in the pharmacokinetics of various drugs, including digoxin, vinblastine, and paclitaxel.
**β Correct Answer: A. P. glycoprotein**