Sometimes a prokaryotic activator protein interacts with a small molecule in the cell and undergoes a change in shape that alters its affinity for binding to DNA. This change in shape is an example of a(n) _____ effect.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

An allosteric effect involves a change in shape of a protein due to the binding of a small molecule, which alters its affinity for binding to another molecule (such as DNA). This kind of effect is common in activator proteins. Allometric, van der Waals, isotonic, and hydrophobic effects are not relevant to this scenario.

Sometimes a Prokaryotic Activator Protein Interacts with a Small Molecule