Multiple Choice
What happens to an enzyme when it is denatured?
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4. Protein Structure
Denaturation
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What happens to an enzyme when it denatures?
A
Its three-dimensional structure unravels, causing loss of biological activity.
B
It becomes more efficient at catalyzing reactions.
C
It gains additional active sites for substrate binding.
D
Its primary amino acid sequence is broken down into individual amino acids.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of enzyme denaturation: Denaturation refers to the process where an enzyme loses its three-dimensional structure due to external factors such as heat, pH changes, or chemical agents. This structural change disrupts its ability to function properly.
Recognize the importance of the enzyme's three-dimensional structure: Enzymes rely on their specific folding and shape to form active sites where substrates bind and reactions are catalyzed. Denaturation affects this folding, rendering the enzyme inactive.
Clarify that denaturation does not break the primary amino acid sequence: The primary structure, which is the linear sequence of amino acids, remains intact during denaturation. Only the higher-order structures (secondary, tertiary, and quaternary) are affected.
Dispel misconceptions about efficiency and active sites: Denaturation does not make the enzyme more efficient or create additional active sites. Instead, it causes the enzyme to lose its ability to catalyze reactions effectively.
Conclude that denaturation leads to loss of biological activity: The unraveling of the enzyme's three-dimensional structure prevents it from interacting with substrates, ultimately halting its catalytic function.
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