Membrane proteins undergo regulated post-exocytic sorting that directs them into specific recycling or degradation pathways, a fundamental mechanism supported by extensive cellular and molecular evidence.
The retrieved papers consistently demonstrate that following exocytosis and cell surface delivery, membrane proteins are subjected to tightly regulated sorting mechanisms that determine whether they undergo endocytic recycling back to the plasma membrane or targeted degradation within lysosomes/vacuoles. Multiple studies detail the molecular machinery (such as retromers, Rab GTPases, and specific adaptors) mediating these specific pathways. Consequently, the claim is well-supported by the literature.