A protein destined for the mitochondrial matrix contains a targeting sequence. Which outcome occurs when the TOM/TIM complex malfunctions in protein import?

💡 Explanation

If the TOM/TIM complex malfunctions, the protein cannot be transported into the mitochondrial matrix via protein translocation, because the complex is essential for import. Therefore, the protein remains in the cytosol, rather than being imported or mislocalized to other organelles.

• What happens to donated red blood cells when ABO-incompatible blood is transfused into a recipient?
• A botanist observes that a plant's stem is elongating more rapidly than expected in low-light conditions. Which mechanism explains why this occurs?
• If cellular respiration lacks oxygen, which consequence follows in mammalian cells?
• Which process explains why the smooth endoplasmic reticulum synthesizes lipids in eukaryotic cells?
• A photosynthetic algal cell is treated with a drug inhibiting prokaryotic ribosomes. Which consequence follows for the cell's chloroplast?
• Why does horizontal gene transfer commonly occur between bacteria and archaea, rather than between eukaryotes and prokaryotes?