Sickle cell anemia is caused by a single mutation in the hemoglobin protein from a Glu to a Val, which results in which alteration in the hemoglobin subunits?
A) more neutral charges and formation of a nucleophilic contact point
B) fewer negative charges and formation of a hydrophobic contact point
C) fewer positive charges and formation of a hydrophobic contact point
D) more negative charges and formation of a hydrophilic contact point
E) more positive charges and formation of a hydrophilic contact point

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The mutation changes an acidic amino acid (Glu) to a nonpolar, hydrophobic amino acid (Val) in the beta-globin subunit of hemoglobin. This alters the interactions between hemoglobin subunits, leading to the formation of hydrophobic patches on the surface of the protein, which can cause hemoglobin molecules to stick together and form rigid, sickle-shaped cells.

Sickle Cell Anemia Is Caused by a Single Mutation in the Hemoglobin