/*! This file is auto-generated */ .wp-block-button__link{color:#fff;background-color:#32373c;border-radius:9999px;box-shadow:none;text-decoration:none;padding:calc(.667em + 2px) calc(1.333em + 2px);font-size:1.125em}.wp-block-file__button{background:#32373c;color:#fff;text-decoration:none} Problem 16 What factors determine how a pro... [FREE SOLUTION] | 91影视

91影视

Log out

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 10: Problem 16

What factors determine how a protein folds into its characteristic conformation?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The factors determining how a protein folds into its characteristic conformation include the sequence of amino acids, interaction between the amino acids (like hydrogen bonds, ionic interactions, Van der Waals forces, and hydrophobic packing), and the environment of the protein such as pH and temperature.

Step by step solution

01

Define Protein Folding

Protein folding is the process by which a protein structure assumes its functional shape or conformation. It is the physical process by which a polypeptide folds into its characteristic and functional three-dimensional structure from a random coil.
02

Address the Main Factors

The major factors that determine how a protein folds into its characteristic conformation are the sequence of amino acids, the interactions between these amino acids, which include hydrogen bonds, ionic interactions, Van der Waals forces and hydrophobic packing, and the influence of the protein's environment such as its pH and temperature.
03

Explain the Role of the Amino Acid Sequence

The sequence of amino acids, determined by the genetic information, establishes the primary structure of the protein. The linear sequence of amino acids drives the folding and refolding of segments of the protein chain into a variety of secondary structures like alpha helix and beta sheets.
04

Discuss the Role of Interactions between Amino Acids

The hydrogen bonds stabilize the secondary structures while the hydrophobic interactions, ionic interactions and Van der Waals forces help in stabilizing the three-dimensional structure. Additionally, the hydrophobic interactions are the driving forces behind protein folding, causing the protein to fold in a way that hides hydrophobic residues in the core away from water.
05

Discuss Environmental Influence

Lastly, the protein's environment such as its pH and temperature affect the protein folding process. Changes in pH may disrupt hydrogen and ionic bonds causing changes in protein shape. Changes in temperature could lead to denaturation of the protein.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with 91影视!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

Where in a cell do DNA replication, transcription, and translation occur?

Why would an overlapping genetic code be restrictive?

Describe three ways RNA is altered after it is transcribed.

How do a protein's primary, secondary, and tertiary structures affect conformation? Which is the most important determinant of conformation?

How does transcription control cell specialization?
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

Ecosystems

Read Explanation

Microbiology

Read Explanation

Reproduction

Read Explanation

Cell Cycle

Read Explanation

Ecology

Read Explanation

Biological Organisms

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.