Which statement is true in an oocyte treated with Wee1 RNAi?

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Study for UCF PCB3023 Molecular Cell Biology Test. Prepare with diverse questions, flashcards, and detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding and get exam-ready!

In the context of an oocyte treated with Wee1 RNAi, the statement that M-Cdk/cyclin is activated more quickly is correct due to the role of the Wee1 kinase in regulating the cell cycle.

Wee1 is a kinase that adds inhibitory phosphate groups to the M-Cdk complex (M-cyclin-dependent kinase), which is essential for controlling the timing of the cell cycle, particularly the transition into mitosis (M phase). By phosphorylating M-Cdk at inhibitory sites, Wee1 prevents premature activation of the kinase, ensuring that the cell does not enter mitosis too early.

When Wee1 is knocked down with RNA interference (RNAi), its inhibitory function on M-Cdk is reduced. This decreased inhibition allows for a more rapid activation of M-Cdk because there are fewer inhibitory phosphate groups present on the protein. As a result, the oocyte can transition into the meiotic or mitotic phase more quickly than it normally would when opposing signals from Wee1 are in play.

This mechanism highlights the importance of cyclin-dependent kinases in cell cycle regulation and demonstrates how the balance of activating and inhibitory signals can significantly influence cellular timing and events in oocyte maturation.