Valine, a nonpolar amino acid, shows up in the wrong place in the hemoglobin of sickle- cell anemia, causing the disease. This is due to a genetic mutation. The result of this mutation is that hemoglobin molecules-which transport oxygen in red blood cells-stick together, causing the red blood cells to become distorted, but without having any significant effect on oxygen binding. Based on what you know about protein structure and the polarity of amino acids, predict where the mutated valine would most likely be found.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Valine is nonpolar and would likely be found on the surface of hemoglobin where it can interact with other nonpolar molecules, leading to the aggregation seen in sickle-cell anemia.

Valine, a Nonpolar Amino Acid, Shows Up in the Wrong