Depending upon the ............. membrane proteins can be classified as integral or peripheral :-

Options

A. Size
B. Sedimentation rate
C. Ease of extraction
D. Molecular weight

Answer

To answer the question "Depending upon the ............. membrane proteins can be classified as integral or peripheral," we need to analyze the classification of membrane proteins.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Membrane Proteins**: Membrane proteins are categorized based on their position and interaction with the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane. There are two main types: integral (or intrinsic) proteins and peripheral (or extrinsic) proteins.

2. **Integral Proteins**: These proteins are either partially or completely embedded within the lipid bilayer. They can span across the membrane and are typically involved in functions such as transport and acting as channels.

3. **Peripheral Proteins**: In contrast, peripheral proteins are not embedded in the lipid bilayer. Instead, they are loosely attached to the surface of the membrane, often interacting with integral proteins or the lipid bilayer itself.

4. **Basis of Classification**: The classification of membrane proteins into integral and peripheral is primarily based on the ease of extraction from the membrane. Integral proteins require more effort and specific conditions to be removed from the membrane, while peripheral proteins can be easily detached.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct term to fill in the blank is "ease of extraction." This indicates how easily a protein can be removed from the membrane, which is the basis for classifying them as integral or peripheral.

### Final Answer:
Depending upon the **ease of extraction**, membrane proteins can be classified as integral or peripheral.

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