To a large extent, a protein's function is dependent upon its shape. What determines a protein's shape?
Question
To a large extent, a protein's function is dependent upon its shape. What determines a protein's shape?
Solution
A protein's shape is primarily determined by its sequence of amino acids, which is encoded in the DNA of the gene that produces that protein. This sequence of amino acids causes the protein to fold into a specific three-dimensional shape.
Here are the steps:
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DNA Transcription: The first step in protein synthesis is the transcription of DNA into RNA. The DNA sequence of a gene is transcribed into a complementary RNA sequence.
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RNA Translation: The RNA sequence is then translated into an amino acid sequence. Each set of three RNA nucleotides, called a codon, corresponds to a specific amino acid.
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Protein Folding: The sequence of amino acids in the protein determines how it folds. The amino acids interact with each other and with the surrounding water molecules, causing the protein to fold into a specific shape. This process is driven by the need to minimize the energy of the system.
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Protein Structure: The final shape of the protein, known as its conformation, is what determines its function. Some proteins are enzymes that catalyze chemical reactions, others are structural proteins that give cells their
Similar Questions
Which of the following is NOT a function of proteins?
It is a transport protein that undergoes conformational change (change in shape) when transporting molecules in and out of the cell.
Which of the following is not a function of proteins?Group of answer choicesmake enzymesmake antibodiesstore genetic informationbuild structural component
List the functions of proteins in the text area below.
Provides instructions for building a protein that plays a particular role in the body
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