High School Biology : Protein Structure
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Example Questions
Example Question #2 : Understanding Protein Classifications
Which of the following types of protein can move around within the lipid bilayer?
None of these can move around in the lipid bilayer
Integral membrane proteins
Mitochondrial proteins
Peripheral membrane proteins
Intermembrane proteins
Peripheral membrane proteins
Proteins are classified into several categories based on where they perform their function. Peripheral membrane proteins span only one side of the lipid bilayer and thus have mobility. Unlike integral membrane proteins, which span the entire lipid bilayer, peripheral membrane proteins have the liberty of traveling from layer to layer as well as flip flop between the two bilayers.
Example Question #21 : Protein Structure
Which type of enzyme is responsible for rearranging a substrate, but not altering its chemical formula?
Hydrolase
Ligase
Isomerase
Oxidoreductase
Isomerase
Isomers are molecules that have the same molecular formula, but have different chemical structures. Isomerases are enzymes that are able to rearrange the structure of a molecule while keeping its chemical formula the same.
Example Question #34 : Proteins
Complete and incomplete are classifications of __________.
electrolytes
neurotransmitters
proteins
enzymes
minerals
proteins
A protein consists of amino acids. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body, and must be included in the diet. A protein containing all of the essential amino acids is called a complete protein. An incomplete protein lacks one or more of the essential amino acids.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that relay messages from one cell to the next. Enzymes are protein catalysts that speed up biological reactions. Minerals are inorganic compounds and are not present in the body in large amounts, with the exception of hydroxyapatite crystal found in bones. Electrolytes are ionic salts in the blood, tissue fluids, and cells, such as sodium, potassium, and chlorine.
Example Question #1 : Understanding Protein Classifications
Bob, a biologist who was researching a new eukaryotic unicellular species, wanted to study a particular protein Y. After obtaining and purifying the sample, Bob discovered that this protein had 3 subunits: A, B, and C. Through substantive scientific analysis, Bob discovered that protein Y operated in a membrane; however, he could not deduce which particular membrane. Nonetheless, Bob found that only subunit B was traversed through the interior of the membrane. With Bob’s findings, please answer the following questions.
What is NOT a possible function of protein Y?
Used as an antiporter
Used in the electron transport chain
Used in DNA replication
Used as a receptor in a signal transduction pathway
Used in nuclear trafficking
Used in DNA replication
Receptor proteins in a signal transduction pathways can be found both within the plasma membrane or cytosol; as a result, protein Y could potentially function as a receptor. The electron transport chain occurs in the mitochondria, and relies on the movement of electrons; the proteins that “move” these electrons, and subsequently pump protons (creating a gradient), are located in the inner membrane. An antiporter functions in a membrane as well due to its importance in creating and maintaining a concentration gradient. In a similar fashion, nuclear trafficking refers to the regulation or movement of molecules in and out of the nuclear membrane. Last, DNA replication occurs in the nucleus and does not involve a membrane of any sort; therefore, the membrane dwelling protein Y cannot function in this process.
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