Asked by Arianna Johnson on Jun 10, 2024
Verified
Prions are pathogenic proteins that are linked to different neurodegenerative diseases. Investigations of some have indicated that normal cellular proteins and prions have the same amino acid sequence. How is this possible?
A) Though the primary structure is the same between the prion and the normal cellular protein, differences at higher levels (secondary or tertiary) alter protein activity.
B) The amino acid sequence is not important to the function of the protein because protein function is completely determined by the pH of the environment.
C) The double helix structure of proteins is easily altered by separating the nitrogenous bases holding the strands together, allowing for a protein to act as a prion.
D) The amino acids of the prion must have more hydrophilic sections, causing it to interact with the lipids of the plasma membrane and disrupting cell activity.
Prions
Infectious agents composed of protein in a misfolded form, which can cause neurodegenerative diseases.
Neurodegenerative Diseases
Disorders characterized by the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, including diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS.
Amino Acid Sequence
The order in which amino acids are linked together to form a protein, determining the protein's structure and function.
- Detail the fundamental nature of enzymes and their involvement in biological processes.
Verified Answer
MI
Mrs. Irene GuzmanJun 13, 2024
Final Answer :
A
Explanation :
Though the primary structure (amino acid sequence) of a prion and its normal cellular counterpart is the same, the difference in their three-dimensional structures (secondary or tertiary structures) leads to different biological activities. This structural alteration is what makes prions pathogenic.
Learning Objectives
- Detail the fundamental nature of enzymes and their involvement in biological processes.