How does the structure of a protein affect its function?

• A. The structure of a protein is irrelevant to its function, as all proteins perform the same role.
• B. Proteins can change their function by altering their color rather than their structure.
• C. Proteins function independently of their structure and are solely determined by their size.
• D. The sequence of amino acids determines the protein's shape, which is crucial for its function.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that proteins are made up of chains of amino acids. The sequence of these amino acids is known as the primary structure of the protein.
2. Recognize that the primary structure determines how the protein will fold into its secondary and tertiary structures. These structures are crucial for the protein's function.
3. The secondary structure refers to local folding into structures like alpha helices and beta sheets, stabilized by hydrogen bonds.
4. The tertiary structure is the overall 3D shape of the protein, formed by interactions between the side chains of the amino acids, including hydrophobic interactions, ionic bonds, and disulfide bridges.
5. The specific shape of the protein, determined by its tertiary structure, is essential for its function, as it allows the protein to interact with other molecules in a precise manner, such as enzymes binding to substrates or receptors binding to ligands.