is the sodium potassium pump a glycoprotein

Question

Is the sodium potassium pump considered a glycoprotein since it is an integral protein and also a carrier protein?

Answer 1

Elizabeth: just to make sure you're getting "cause and effect" right here in the nomenclature--the fact that it is an integral membrane protein means it's LIKELY to be a glycoprotein because many proteins that are released or 'face the outside world" have sugar outsides as part of their protection. But integral membrane protein refers to where it sits (membrane) and the fact that it is embedded (as opposed to just hanging on the surface)

 

Being a carrier protein is a reference to what it does--it is involved in moving another molecule or ion through the membrane.

 

So being an integral membrane protein is necessary if you're a carrier, and it makes it reasonable/likely that it'll be glycosylated, but it follows only indirectly. So Ye Google Search, checking of class notes, or looking for a paper about the protein is necessary to draw the positive conclusion. We also know a lot about exactly WHERE the sugars (that's what the 'glyco' root is referencing) are put on, so knowing the sequence of the protein(s) can be a guide. 

Answer 2

Yes, the mammalian Na/K ATPase (Na/K pump) has a glycoprotein as the beta subunit.