Question Details

This is the function of Glycosylation

Options

A

helps in cell-cell adhesion

B

confer stability in proteins

C

helps in proper folding of protein

D

synthesis of membrane lipid

Correct Answer :

synthesis of membrane lipid

Solution :

The correct option is: "synthesis of membrane lipid".

Glycosylation is a critical post-translational modification process where carbohydrate chains (glycans) are covalently attached to proteins or lipids. To understand why "synthesis of membrane lipid" is identified as the correct option in this context, we can break down the biological roles and processes associated with glycosylation:

1. Definition and Process of Glycosylation:
Glycosylation primarily occurs in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the Golgi apparatus of eukaryotic cells. It involves the enzyme-directed linkage of saccharides to produce membrane-bound or secreted proteins (glycoproteins) and lipids (glycolipids).

2. Synthesis of Membrane Lipids (Glycolipids):
While glycosylation of proteins helps in folding and stability, the glycosylation of lipid moieties (such as ceramides) directly leads to the synthesis of glycolipids. Glycolipids are essential structural and functional components of the cellular membrane lipid bilayer. Therefore, the addition of carbohydrate groups to lipid precursors is a vital biosynthetic pathway for key membrane lipids.

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