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Multiple Choice
At which position(s) in a polypeptide are amino acids limited to those with positively charged side chains?
A
At the N-terminus only
B
At positions involved in forming salt bridges with negatively charged residues
C
At all positions within the polypeptide chain
D
At the C-terminus only
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context of the question: Amino acids with positively charged side chains include lysine (Lys), arginine (Arg), and histidine (His). These amino acids are involved in electrostatic interactions, such as salt bridges, with negatively charged residues like aspartate (Asp) and glutamate (Glu).
Review the structure of a polypeptide chain: A polypeptide has an N-terminus (amino group), a C-terminus (carboxyl group), and a sequence of amino acids in between. The side chains of amino acids in the chain determine their chemical properties and interactions.
Consider the role of positively charged amino acids: These amino acids are not restricted to specific positions like the N-terminus or C-terminus. Instead, they can be found throughout the polypeptide chain, where they participate in interactions such as salt bridges with negatively charged residues.
Analyze the concept of salt bridges: Salt bridges are formed when positively charged side chains interact with negatively charged side chains. These interactions stabilize the protein structure and can occur at any position within the polypeptide chain, depending on the protein's folding and environment.
Conclude that positively charged amino acids are not limited to specific positions like the N-terminus or C-terminus. They are distributed throughout the polypeptide chain and are involved in forming salt bridges with negatively charged residues wherever such interactions are required for structural stability or function.