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The scientists measured the metabolic activity of mammalian cells by measuring the uptake of glucose into the cells - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Question 3
The scientists measured the metabolic activity of mammalian cells by measuring the uptake of glucose into the cells. The cells were maintained at 37 °C with a pH of ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The scientists measured the metabolic activity of mammalian cells by measuring the uptake of glucose into the cells - VCE - SSCE Biology - Question 3 - 2021 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain why the uptake of glucose into the cells could be used to measure the metabolic activity of the cells.
Answer
The uptake of glucose into cells is a critical indicator of metabolic activity because glucose is utilized in cellular respiration to produce ATP. ATP is the primary energy currency of cells, and its production correlates with metabolic processes occurring within the cell. Therefore, an increase in glucose uptake reflects heightened metabolic activity as the cells are actively converting glucose into energy.
Step 2
Would the uptake of glucose into the cells be expected to be higher, lower or the same as for the first experiment? Justify your response.
Answer
In low-oxygen conditions, the uptake of glucose into the cells would likely be higher in comparison to the first experiment. This occurs because, under anaerobic conditions, cells do not efficiently produce ATP from glucose, which leads to a need for more glucose to generate the same amount of energy. The cells would resort to anaerobic respiration, which is less efficient and requires an increased amount of substrate (glucose) to sustain metabolic functions.