You have just sequenced a new protein found in Tetrahymena and observe that sulfur-containing cysteine residues occur at regular intervals in the sequence. Which hypothesis is supported by this observation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The regular occurrence of cysteine residues suggests that disulfide bridges (covalent bonds between sulfur atoms of cysteine residues) play a significant role in stabilizing the protein's tertiary structure. Disulfide bridges are a common way to stabilize the three-dimensional structure of proteins, especially those secreted outside of cells.

You Have Just Sequenced a New Protein Found in Tetrahymena