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Ch. 9 - The Molecular Biology of Translation
Sanders - Genetic Analysis: An Integrated Approach 3rd Edition
Sanders3rd EditionGenetic Analysis: An Integrated ApproachISBN: 9780135564172Not the one you use?Change textbook
All textbooksSanders 3rd EditionCh. 9 - The Molecular Biology of TranslationProblem 1b
Chapter 9, Problem 1b

Some proteins are composed of two or more polypeptides. Suppose the DNA template strand sequence 3′-TACGTAGGCTAACGGAGTAAGCTAACT-5′ produces a polypeptide that joins in pairs to form a functional protein.
What term is used to identify a functional protein like this one formed when two identical polypeptides join together?

Verified step by step guidance
1
Step 1: Understand the problem. The question is asking for the term used to describe a functional protein formed when two identical polypeptides join together. This involves understanding protein structure and assembly.
Step 2: Recall the concept of protein quaternary structure. Proteins can have up to four levels of structure: primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary. The quaternary structure refers to the arrangement of multiple polypeptide chains (subunits) in a protein.
Step 3: Identify the specific case described in the problem. The protein in question is formed by the joining of two identical polypeptides. This type of protein is referred to as a 'homodimer.'
Step 4: Define the term 'homodimer.' A homodimer is a protein complex formed when two identical polypeptide chains (subunits) bind together to create a functional protein.
Step 5: Relate the term to the problem. Since the functional protein described in the problem is formed by two identical polypeptides joining together, the correct term to describe it is 'homodimer.'

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Polypeptide

A polypeptide is a chain of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, which are formed during the process of translation in protein synthesis. Polypeptides fold into specific three-dimensional structures to become functional proteins. The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide is determined by the corresponding mRNA, which is transcribed from DNA.
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Dimer

A dimer is a type of protein complex formed when two identical or similar polypeptides (monomers) join together. This interaction can occur through various types of bonding, such as hydrogen bonds or disulfide bridges, and is crucial for the protein's functionality. Dimers can exhibit unique properties that differ from those of individual polypeptides.
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Protein Structure

Protein structure refers to the specific arrangement of amino acids in a polypeptide chain, which determines its function. Proteins have four levels of structure: primary (amino acid sequence), secondary (local folding patterns), tertiary (overall 3D shape), and quaternary (assembly of multiple polypeptides). Understanding these structures is essential for grasping how proteins interact and function in biological systems.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question

If you were to look up Gaucher disease on the OMIM website, you would see that there are three major types, designated Type I (OMIM 230800), Type II (OMIM 230900), and Type III (OMIM 231000). All three types are mutations of the gene for acid-β-glucosidase, encoded on chromosome 1. Different mutations of this gene produce the three types of Gaucher disease that differ somewhat in their symptoms and disease severity.

For each mutation, speculate about whether the acid-β-glucosidase enzyme is merely reduced in function or whether its production is eliminated, and explain why.

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Textbook Question

If you were to look up Gaucher disease on the OMIM website, you would see that there are three major types, designated Type I (OMIM 230800), Type II (OMIM 230900), and Type III (OMIM 231000). All three types are mutations of the gene for acid-β-glucosidase, encoded on chromosome 1. Different mutations of this gene produce the three types of Gaucher disease that differ somewhat in their symptoms and disease severity.

Thinking about the production or function of the acid-β-glucosidase enzyme, why do you suppose different mutations of this gene produce differences in symptoms and disease severity?

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Textbook Question

Some proteins are composed of two or more polypeptides. Suppose the DNA template strand sequence 3′-TACGTAGGCTAACGGAGTAAGCTAACT-5′ produces a polypeptide that joins in pairs to form a functional protein. What is the amino acid sequence of the polypeptide produced from this sequence?

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Textbook Question

In the experiments that deciphered the genetic code, many different synthetic mRNA sequences were tested.

Describe how the codon for phenylalanine was identified.

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Textbook Question

In the experiments that deciphered the genetic code, many different synthetic mRNA sequences were tested.

What was the result of studies of synthetic mRNAs composed exclusively of cytosine?

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Textbook Question

In the experiments that deciphered the genetic code, many different synthetic mRNA sequences were tested.

What result was obtained for synthetic mRNAs containing AG repeats, that is, AGAGAGAG...?

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