Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the process of denaturation in proteins?
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4. Protein Structure
Denaturation
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What happens when a protein is denatured?
A
Its secondary and tertiary structures are disrupted, but its primary structure remains intact.
B
Its primary structure is broken down into individual amino acids.
C
It gains new enzymatic activity.
D
It becomes more resistant to proteolytic enzymes.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of protein structure: Proteins have four levels of structure—primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary. The primary structure refers to the sequence of amino acids, while secondary and tertiary structures involve folding and interactions that give the protein its functional shape.
Define denaturation: Denaturation is a process where a protein loses its functional shape due to external factors such as heat, pH changes, or chemical agents. This process disrupts the secondary and tertiary structures but does not affect the primary structure (the sequence of amino acids).
Analyze the options: Evaluate each answer choice based on the definition of denaturation. For example, the primary structure remains intact during denaturation, so any option suggesting its breakdown is incorrect.
Consider enzymatic activity: Denaturation typically results in the loss of enzymatic activity because the protein's functional shape is disrupted. Therefore, the option suggesting new enzymatic activity is incorrect.
Evaluate resistance to proteolytic enzymes: Denatured proteins are often more susceptible to proteolytic enzymes because their unfolded structure exposes cleavage sites. Thus, the option suggesting increased resistance is incorrect.
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