Question 1

Which of the following best describes the general structure of an amino acid?

Accepted Answer

A central carbon atom bonded to a hydrogen atom, an amine group, an acid group, and a unique side chain

Question 2

Which process is responsible for transferring an amine group from one amino acid to a different acid group and side chain, allowing the body to synthesize nonessential amino acids?

Accepted Answer

Transamination

Question 3

What is the primary function of the tertiary and quaternary structures of proteins?

Accepted Answer

To fold the protein into a unique three-dimensional shape that determines its function

Question 4

A patient presents with edema and a distended belly after a period of severe protein deficiency. Which disorder is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Kwashiorkor

Question 5

Which of the following is an example of complementary protein foods that together provide all essential amino acids?

Accepted Answer

Rice and beans

Question 6

Which enzyme is primarily responsible for the breakdown of proteins in the small intestine?

Accepted Answer

Protease

Question 7

Calculate the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for protein for a 70 kg adult. Use the formula $$0.8 \ 	ext{g protein} / 	ext{kg body weight} / 	ext{day}.$$

Accepted Answer

$$56 \ 	ext{g protein/day}$$

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a function of proteins in the human body?

Accepted Answer

Primary energy storage

Question 9

A vegan diet is most likely to be deficient in which of the following nutrients without careful planning?

Accepted Answer

Vitamin B12

Question 10

Which of the following best explains why animal proteins are considered 'complete' proteins?

Accepted Answer

They contain all nine essential amino acids in sufficient quantities

Question 11

A person who consumes only plant-based foods, excluding all animal products, is following which type of diet?

Accepted Answer

Vegan

Question 12

Which of the following is a potential health risk associated with excessive protein intake, especially from animal sources?

Accepted Answer

Increased risk of kidney disease in susceptible individuals

Question 13

Which of the following best describes the process of denaturation?

Accepted Answer

The loss of a protein's shape and function due to heat, acids, bases, heavy metals, or alcohol

Question 14

A child with extreme tissue wasting, stunted growth, and insufficient intake of both protein and energy is most likely suffering from:

Accepted Answer

Marasmus

Question 15

Which of the following best describes mutual supplementation?

Accepted Answer

Combining two incomplete protein sources to provide all essential amino acids

Question 16

Which of the following is a function of proteins related to fluid balance in the body?

Accepted Answer

Proteins help maintain the proper distribution of fluids between blood and tissues, preventing edema

Question 17

Which of the following scenarios would most likely result in a positive nitrogen balance?

Accepted Answer

A pregnant woman

Question 18

Which of the following is a reason why plant protein sources are generally less digestible than animal protein sources?

Accepted Answer

Plant proteins are often bound with fiber, making them harder to digest

Question 19

Which of the following best describes the role of mRNA in protein synthesis?

Accepted Answer

It carries the genetic code from DNA to the ribosome for translation

Question 20

A patient following a macrobiotic diet is at greatest risk for which of the following complications if the diet is taken to the extreme?

Accepted Answer

Malnutrition and death

Proteins: Structure, Function, Digestion, and Dietary Considerations

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