MCAT® ExamBiological and Biochemical Foundations of Living SystemsMedium
A patient is diagnosed with a genetic disorder characterized by the inability to synthesize certain essential amino acids. Which of the following cellular processes would be most directly and immediately impacted by this deficiency?
- AGlycolysis
- BProtein synthesis
- CFatty acid synthesis
- DDNA replication
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Protein synthesis
Essential amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. A deficiency in these would directly impair the cell's ability to synthesize new proteins, as ribosomes require a full complement of amino acids to translate mRNA.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Glycolysis is the breakdown of glucose, not directly dependent on amino acids.
- C. Fatty acid synthesis uses acetyl-CoA and NADPH, not directly amino acids.
- D. DNA replication uses deoxyribonucleotides, not amino acids, as its primary building blocks.
Essential Amino Acids
Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from the diet. They are crucial for protein synthesis and various metabolic functions.
- There are 9 essential amino acids for humans.
- They are required for the construction of all proteins.
- Deficiencies can lead to impaired growth and various health issues.
Memory trick: Missing 'building blocks' means no new 'structures'.