The rate of transcription of the mRNA of which of the following enzymes is most likely increased in an individual on a fat-free, high-carbohydrate diet?
A) fatty acid synthase
B) fructose 1,6-bisphosphatase
C) hormone-sensitive lipase
D) phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase
E) pyruvate carboxylase

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A fat-free, high-carbohydrate diet increases the need for de novo lipogenesis, which involves the synthesis of fatty acids. Fatty acid synthase is a key enzyme in this process, and its transcription is upregulated to facilitate the conversion of excess carbohydrates into fatty acids.  Dietary composition can exert longterm effects on biochemical pathways generally exerted at the level of gene expression. A diet low in fat will trigger a need for increased de novo synthesis of fatty acids, and thus be reflected in an increased level of expression of fatty acid synthase.

The Rate of Transcription of the MRNA of Which of the Following