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Multiple Choice
What does the primary structure of a protein refer to?
A
The arrangement of multiple polypeptide subunits in a protein complex
B
The local folding of the polypeptide chain into structures such as alpha-helices and beta-sheets
C
The three-dimensional folding pattern of the entire protein
D
The linear sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain
Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the concept 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: Define the primary structure of a protein. The primary structure refers to the linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain, connected by peptide bonds. This sequence is determined by the genetic code.
Step 3: Differentiate the primary structure from other levels of protein structure. Secondary structure involves local folding into alpha-helices and beta-sheets, tertiary structure describes the three-dimensional folding of the entire protein, and quaternary structure refers to the arrangement of multiple polypeptide subunits in a protein complex.
Step 4: Recognize that the primary structure is the foundation for all higher levels of protein structure. The sequence of amino acids determines how the protein will fold and function.
Step 5: Apply this knowledge to the problem. The correct answer is 'The linear sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain,' as this defines the primary structure of a protein.