Correct option is C
Explanation-
The nuclear envelope surrounds the nucleus and has nuclear pore complexes (NPCs). Small molecules (< 40–50 kDa) can diffuse freely through these pores. Large proteins (>50 kDa) cannot pass freely — they need help.
The large protein can enter the nucleus but they require -
1. A Nuclear Localization Signal (NLS) on the protein.
2. Importin proteins (like Importin α and Importin β) to recognize the NLS and escort the protein through the nuclear pore.
Role of Importin β:
Importin β binds to the NPC and helps move the protein through it using energy (GTP via Ran-GTP cycle). It's the main carrier for large nuclear proteins.
Incorrect options -
Option a - Sec61 - It translocates proteins into ER and not involved in nuclear import
Option b - Tom20 - It helps in transporting the proteins into mitochondria and hence not related to nuclear envelope
Option d - Tim44 - It helps in mitochondrial inner membrane protein import and again, mitochondria not nucleus
So, the correct answer is option c - Importin B