ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ScienceMedium
A researcher is studying a novel protein. They determine its primary structure. What specific information does this reveal about the protein?
- AThe way multiple polypeptide chains interact
- BThe presence of alpha-helices and beta-sheets
- CThe sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain
- DThe three-dimensional shape of the protein
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain
The primary structure of a protein refers specifically to the linear sequence of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. This sequence is fundamental because it dictates all higher levels of protein structure.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This describes the quaternary structure.
- B. This describes elements of the secondary structure.
- D. This describes the tertiary or quaternary structure.
Protein Primary Structure
The unique, linear sequence of amino acids that makes up a polypeptide chain, determined by the genetic code.
- It's the most fundamental level of protein structure.
- Determined by peptide bonds between amino acids.
- Dictates all subsequent levels of protein folding and function.
Memory trick: Primary's First, Secondary's Spirals, Tertiary's Three-D, Quaternary's Quartet.