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Multiple Choice
Which type of amino acid deficiency is most commonly associated with the development of macrocytic anemia?
A
Deficiency of essential amino acids involved in nucleotide synthesis, such as methionine
B
Deficiency of sulfur-containing amino acids, such as cysteine
C
Deficiency of aromatic amino acids, such as phenylalanine
D
Deficiency of branched-chain amino acids, such as leucine
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of macrocytic anemia: Macrocytic anemia is characterized by the presence of abnormally large red blood cells and is often linked to impaired DNA synthesis, which affects cell division.
Identify the biochemical connection: DNA synthesis requires nucleotides, and the production of nucleotides depends on essential amino acids like methionine. Methionine is involved in the synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a key methyl donor in nucleotide synthesis.
Evaluate the role of sulfur-containing amino acids: Sulfur-containing amino acids like methionine and cysteine are critical for various metabolic processes, but methionine specifically plays a direct role in nucleotide synthesis, which is essential for red blood cell production.
Exclude other amino acid categories: Aromatic amino acids (e.g., phenylalanine) and branched-chain amino acids (e.g., leucine) are important for protein synthesis and energy metabolism but are not directly involved in nucleotide synthesis or the development of macrocytic anemia.
Conclude the deficiency type: Based on the biochemical role in nucleotide synthesis, the deficiency of essential amino acids like methionine is most commonly associated with macrocytic anemia.