Cyclic AMP (cAMP) is a small molecule that associates with its binding site with a high degree of specificity.Which types of noncovalent interactions are the most important for providing the "hand in a glove" binding of cAMP?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hydrogen bonds are the most important noncovalent interactions because cAMP has many hydrogen bond donor and acceptor groups that can form stable hydrogen bonds with specific residues in its binding site. Electrostatic interactions can play a role in cAMP binding, but they are less specific and may be influenced by the ionic strength of the solution. Van der Waals and hydrophobic interactions are also important for shaping the binding pocket and stabilizing the overall structure of the protein, but they are not as specific for cAMP binding as hydrogen bonds.

Cyclic AMP (CAMP) Is a Small Molecule That Associates with Its