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🔬 Biology  ·  Transport in Plants  ·  NEET

Guard cell closure in response to ABA involves:

  • A K+ entering guard cells through inward-rectifying channels to raise turgor
  • B Ca2+ as second messenger activating K+ efflux channels and anion channels, causing turgor loss
  • C Selective inhibition of plasma membrane H+ ATPase with no change in ion channel activity
  • D Water diffusing directly into the guard cell wall matrix independent of osmosis

Correct answer: B. Ca2+ as second messenger activating K+ efflux channels and anion channels, causing turgor loss

Explanation: ABA binds receptors (PYR/PYL), inactivating PP2C phosphatases. This activates SnRK2 kinases, increasing cytosolic Ca2+. Ca2+ activates anion channels (Cl- efflux) and inhibits K+ influx, reducing turgor.

Concept context

Water and mineral absorption, the ascent of sap, transpiration, and phloem transport via the pressure flow hypothesis.

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