Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

What is one of the roles of carbohydrates in cells?

1. Storing genetic information

2. Providing structural support

3. Facilitating hormonal regulation

4. Producing lipids

The correct answer is: Providing structural support

Carbohydrates play a crucial role in providing structural support to cells and tissues. They are key components of cell membranes and contribute to the overall architecture of organisms. For instance, in plants, cellulose, a carbohydrate, is a major component of the plant cell wall, giving rigidity and strength to the plant structure. In other organisms, carbohydrates are found in the form of glycoproteins and glycoproteins which also play significant roles in structural integrity and cell signaling. Understanding the nature of carbohydrates allows one to appreciate their multifunctional roles, including serving as energy sources and influencing cellular communication, but their role in providing structural support is particularly significant, especially in the context of plant biology and the creation of exoskeletons in certain invertebrates. The other roles mentioned in the other options do not align with the primary functions of carbohydrates. Genetic information is stored in nucleic acids, hormonal regulation typically involves proteins and signaling molecules, and lipids are produced through metabolic pathways that are distinct from those involving carbohydrates. Thus, the role of carbohydrates in providing structural support is a fundamental and well-recognized function critical to cellular and tissue organization.