Use a highlighter to color any amino acid that varies among the species. (Color that amino acid in all sequences.)
d. In the M sequence, circle the amino acid(s) that differ from the C, G, R sequences, and draw a square around those that differ from the H sequence.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the amino acid sequences for each species: Human, Mouse, Chimpanzee, Frog, and Fish.
2. Compare each position across all species to find amino acids that vary. Highlight these positions in all sequences.
3. For the M sequence (Mouse), compare each amino acid with the C (Chimpanzee), G (Frog), and R (Fish) sequences.
4. Circle the amino acids in the Mouse sequence that differ from the Chimpanzee, Frog, and Fish sequences.
5. Draw a square around the amino acids in the Mouse sequence that differ from the Human sequence.

Key Concepts

Amino Acid Sequence Alignment

Amino acid sequence alignment is a method used to identify regions of similarity that may indicate functional, structural, or evolutionary relationships between the sequences. In this context, the alignment helps to compare the sequences from different species to identify variations, which are crucial for understanding evolutionary differences and functional implications.

Protein Structure and Function

Proteins are composed of amino acids, and their sequence determines their three-dimensional structure and function. Variations in amino acid sequences can lead to changes in protein structure, potentially affecting its function. Understanding these variations is essential for studying how different species adapt and evolve at the molecular level.

Evolutionary Biology

Evolutionary biology examines the origins and changes in the diversity of life over time. By comparing amino acid sequences across species, scientists can infer evolutionary relationships and trace lineage divergences. This concept is crucial for understanding how genetic variations contribute to the adaptation and evolution of species.