Multiple Choice
Which effect would a mutation in mRNA have on the production of proteins?
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15. Gene Expression
Mutations
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The mutation resulting in the sickle-cell allele causes which of the following changes in the hemoglobin protein?
A
A duplication of the alpha-globin gene
B
An insertion of an extra nucleotide in the beta-globin gene
C
A substitution of valine for glutamic acid
D
A deletion of the entire beta-globin gene
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that sickle-cell disease is caused by a mutation in the hemoglobin protein, specifically in the beta-globin gene.
Recognize that the mutation involves a single nucleotide change, which leads to an amino acid substitution in the protein structure.
Identify that the normal hemoglobin has glutamic acid at a specific position, which is hydrophilic, meaning it interacts well with water.
Note that in sickle-cell hemoglobin, this glutamic acid is replaced by valine, which is hydrophobic, causing the hemoglobin molecules to stick together under low oxygen conditions.
Conclude that this substitution of valine for glutamic acid in the beta-globin chain is responsible for the sickle shape of red blood cells in sickle-cell disease.
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