In the salamander,the sour taste receptor cells function by having an apically localized K⁺ channel that is blocked by protons.When protons are applied,what happens to the membrane potential and why?
A)Receptor depolarization because K⁺ permeability,which normally maintains a hyperpolarized resting state,is reduced.
B)Receptor hyperpolarization because H⁺ ions move into the cell and render it more positively charged.
C)Receptor hyperpolarization because the H⁺ ions outside the cell make the inside of the cell more negatively charged.
D)Nothing will happen until the G protein is activated.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sour taste receptor cells in salamanders function by having a K⁺ channel that, when blocked by protons, reduces K⁺ permeability. Normally, K⁺ helps maintain a hyperpolarized resting state by moving out of the cell. When this movement is inhibited, the cell becomes less negative inside, leading to depolarization.

In the Salamander,the Sour Taste Receptor Cells Function by Having