Membrane Transport Mechanisms · Physiology

Which of the following conditions would favor passive leakage of a hydrophobic drug across cell membranes into cells?

  1. Decreased membrane fluidity due to high cholesterol
  2. Large size and high polarity of the drug
  3. High lipid solubility and no charge on the drug molecule
  4. High extracellular concentration of proteins binding the drug
Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: High lipid solubility and no charge on the drug molecule

Hydrophobic, uncharged, lipid-soluble molecules diffuse more readily through the lipid bilayer by simple diffusion; this property enhances passive membrane permeation. Other features (size, polarity, charge) would hinder membrane passage.

Difficulty: Medium Question 19 of 24

Practice all 24 Membrane Transport Mechanisms questions

Keep practicing

More Membrane Transport Mechanisms questions