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Multiple Choice
Which of the following best describes the tertiary structure of proteins?
A
The overall three-dimensional folding of a single polypeptide chain stabilized by interactions between side chains (R groups)
B
The regular arrangement of polypeptide backbone into α-helices and β-sheets
C
The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain
D
The association of multiple polypeptide subunits into a functional protein complex
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Begin by understanding the hierarchical levels of protein structure. Proteins have four levels of structure: primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary. Each level describes a different aspect of the protein's organization.
Step 2: Recall that tertiary structure refers to the overall three-dimensional folding of a single polypeptide chain. This folding is stabilized by interactions between the side chains (R groups) of amino acids, such as hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, hydrophobic interactions, and disulfide bridges.
Step 3: Compare tertiary structure to the other levels of protein structure. The primary structure is the linear sequence of amino acids, the secondary structure involves regular arrangements like α-helices and β-sheets formed by hydrogen bonding in the backbone, and the quaternary structure describes the association of multiple polypeptide subunits.
Step 4: Analyze the options provided in the question. Identify which description matches the definition of tertiary structure, focusing on the three-dimensional folding and stabilization by side chain interactions.
Step 5: Select the correct answer based on your analysis. Ensure that the chosen option aligns with the definition of tertiary structure and does not describe primary, secondary, or quaternary structures.