Chymotrypsin, trypsin, elastase, and thrombin are all members of the serine protease family because each
A) has similar charge and shape properties in its substrate insertion pockets.
B) can form a heptahedral complex with its substrate.
C) uses the same catalytic mechanism involving the same key amino acids.
D) can be modified by the cell-wall degrading enzyme chitinase.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Chymotrypsin, trypsin, elastase, and thrombin are all members of the serine protease family because they use the same catalytic mechanism involving key amino acids, such as serine, histidine, and aspartic acid. This mechanism involves the serine residue in the enzyme active site acting as a nucleophile to form a covalent bond with the substrate. The other answer choices are not applicable to all members of the serine protease family.

Chymotrypsin, Trypsin, Elastase, and Thrombin Are All Members of the Serine