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Multiple Choice
Which functional group is involved in the formation of disulfide bridges in proteins?
A
Amino (–NH_2)
B
Thiol (–SH)
C
Carboxyl (–COOH)
D
Hydroxyl (–OH)
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Disulfide bridges are covalent bonds that stabilize the tertiary and quaternary structure of proteins. These bonds are formed between specific functional groups in amino acids.
Identify the amino acid responsible: The thiol group (–SH) is found in the side chain of the amino acid cysteine. This group is crucial for forming disulfide bridges.
Explain the chemical reaction: Two thiol groups from cysteine residues undergo oxidation to form a disulfide bond (–S–S–). This reaction involves the removal of hydrogen atoms from the thiol groups.
Compare functional groups: Amino (–NH_2), carboxyl (–COOH), and hydroxyl (–OH) groups do not participate in disulfide bridge formation. Only the thiol group (–SH) has the chemical properties required for this reaction.
Conclude: The functional group involved in the formation of disulfide bridges in proteins is the thiol group (–SH), specifically from cysteine residues.