The venom of black widow spiders (Latrodectus mactans) contains an enzyme that hydrolyzes lecithin to the phospholipid lysolecithin. The lysolecithin lyses red blood cells, destroying them. One possible mechanism whereby lysolecithin disrupts the plasma membranes of red blood cells is that it
A) is toxic to red blood cells.
B) may act in a manner similar to detergents.
C) binds calcium ions, compromising membrane integrity.
D) acts as a second messenger to stimulate apoptosis.
E) None of the above is a possible mechanism.
B) may act in a manner similar to detergents.
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What is the function of a statolith?
A. to determine whether an organism is stationary or moving B. to determine the direction of gravity C. to amplify sound waves D. to detect vibrations in water
In chordates, which mesoderm structure forms during gastrulation and provides structural rigidity along the dorsal anterioposterior axis of the embryo?
A. Archenteron B. Neural tube C. Notochord D. Epidermis E. Intestinal tract
Which type of immunoglobulin molecule is passed on to nursing infants in breast milk?
A. IgG. B. IgM. C. IgA. D. IgE.
The Apicomplexa are named for their apical complexes which allow them to
A) be motile by means of multiple flagella. B) penetrate the cytoplasmic membranes of host cells. C) undergo schizogony. D) carry out photosynthesis. E) attach to surfaces.