Which type VI lipid-anchored protein is characterized by S-palmitoylation?

Type VI lipid-anchored proteins are specifically characterized by their S-palmitoylation, which involves the attachment of palmitic acid (a fatty acid) to a cysteine residue in the protein. This post-translational modification allows these proteins to associate with cell membranes and participate in various cellular processes, including signaling and membrane trafficking.

S-palmitoylation is crucial for the function and localization of Type VI proteins, as it provides a lipid tail that facilitates membrane anchoring. This is a defining feature of Type VI lipid-anchored proteins, distinguishing them from other types of lipid-anchored proteins or integral membrane proteins, which may not have this specific modification or may have different anchoring mechanisms.

In contrast, the other answer choices do not pertain to the specific characteristics of S-palmitoylation. Type V proteins, for instance, have their own distinct properties and lipid modifications. Similarly, lipid-anchored proteins without transmembrane domains may utilize different types of lipid modifications, and integral membrane proteins typically span the membrane rather than anchoring through lipid modifications alone. Thus, the unique aspect of S-palmitoylation firmly positions Type VI proteins as the correct answer in this context.