The function of a protein is dependent upon the shape into which the chain of amino acids folds. Many noncovalent interactions are responsible for maintaining the protein's shape. Assume you have isolated a protein from an organism in its proper shape, and you have treated it with an enzyme that selectively targets and breaks only the peptide bonds in the proteins. Would the protein retain its shape under these conditions?
A)Yes; once noncovalent bonding determines the shape of a protein, the peptide bonds are no longer necessary.
B)Yes; because the noncovalent interactions that determine the shape of a protein are stronger than the peptide bonds.
C)No; while the noncovalent bonds determine the shape of a protein, the peptide bonds are required to hold the amino acids together.
D)Yes; but the shape would be affected to a greater extent by changes in temperature.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Peptide bonds are necessary for holding the amino acids together in a protein chain. Without these covalent bonds, the protein would be broken down into individual amino acids and would not be able to maintain its shape based on noncovalent interactions alone. Therefore, the protein would not retain its shape after treatment with an enzyme that selectively breaks peptide bonds.

The Function of a Protein Is Dependent Upon the Shape