Question

While delivering genes by chemical methods, one popular conjecture about what happens to poly(ethylenimine)/DNA complexes following endocytosis is known as the proton sponge hypothesis, which entails the following steps:
(A) PEI/DNA complexes are endocytosed.
(B) V-ATPases will pump protons into the vesicular interior.
(C) Water will enter the vesicle to balance the osmotic gradient.,
(D) The vesicle will swell due to the entry of ions and water, leading to rupture.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A), (B), and (D) only
• B. (A), (B), and (C) only
• C. (A), (B), (C), and (D)
• D. (B), (C), and (D) only

Hint:

Understand the sequence of events described in the proton sponge hypothesis for efficient gene delivery.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The proton sponge hypothesis explains that PEI/DNA complexes are taken up by endocytosis. The vesicles' interior becomes acidic due to proton pumping by V-ATPases. To balance the osmotic gradient, water enters, causing swelling and eventual vesicle rupture, releasing the DNA into the cytoplasm.