Mutations that result in a single amino acid substitution in an enzyme ________.
A) cannot affect the activity or properties of the enzyme
B) will destroy the activity of the enzyme
C) will change the substrate specificity of the enzyme
D) may change the enzyme's optimal temperature or optimal pH
E) may, in rare cases, cause the enzyme to run reactions in reverse

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mutations that result in a single amino acid substitution in an enzyme may change the enzyme's optimal temperature or optimal pH. This is because amino acid substitutions can affect the stability of the enzyme's structure, which can in turn affect its activity under different environmental conditions. However, a single amino acid substitution may not necessarily destroy the activity of the enzyme or change its substrate specificity. It is also unlikely to cause the enzyme to run reactions in reverse.

Mutations That Result in a Single Amino Acid Substitution in an Enzyme