Using the analogy of an office key opening an office door to describe the action of chemical messengers on an ion channel, which of the following would be equivalent to inserting the correct key into the lock?

Question

BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

We start by restating the problem in our own words to frame the mapping between the analogy and the biology involved. The question asks which scenario best matches the act of inserting the correct key into a lock, using the analogy of chemical messengers (keys) interacting with ion channels (locks).
Option 1: Agonist receptor binding on the ion channel. In receptor–channel signaling, an agonist binds to its receptor or directly to an ion channel, triggering the channel to open or to change conformation in a way that allows ions to flow. This directly corresponds to the act of inserting the correct key into the lock and turning it to unlock the door. The analogy is strongest here because the binding event is what initiates the functional change in the channel.
Option 2: Antagonist receptor binding on the ion channel. An antagonist binds to a receptor or channel but prevents activation; it typically blocks the effect of an agonist. In the key analogy, this would be like trying to put a key in the lock that fits the mechanism to prevent the door from opening, or using a master key that jams the mechanism. This does not accomplish the opening action, so it’s not the best fit for the “inserting the correct key to unlock” idea.
Option 3: Opening the ion channel. This describes the result of the process (the door opening) rather than the event that constitutes the key insertion itself. It’s the consequence of the correct binding event, not the act of inserting the key. While related, it doesn’t map to the initial step of recognition and binding that the key represents.
Option 4: Neurotransmitter release into the synapse. Release into the synapse is a preceding step that delivers the messenger to the vicinity of the receptor or channel, akin to presenting the key to the lock area but not the actual act of engagement with the lock itself. It’s necessary for signaling, but it is not the direct act of inserting the key into the lock.
By evaluating each option, we differentiate between the binding event (the initiating interaction) and downstream consequences or related steps. The binding of an agonist to its receptor or channel best captures the concept of selecting and inserting the correct key to trigger opening, whereas the antagonist blocks, opening is the outcome, and neurotransmitter release is a preparatory or delivery step rather than the key-insertion action.

PSYC10003_2025_SM1 Exam: Mind, Brain & Behaviour 1 (PSYC10003_2025_SM1)

Using the analogy of an office key opening an office door to describe the action of chemical messengers on an ion channel, which of the following would be equivalent to inserting the correct key into the lock?

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