Which of the following most accurately describes the primary structure of a protein?
Which of the following most accurately describes the primary structure of a protein?
- A. The linear amino acid sequence of the protein
- B. The alpha helicies of the protein
- C. The hydrogen bonds between amino acids in the protein
- D. The non-covalent interactions between multiple protein subunits which come together to form a larger protein
Correct Answer: A. The linear amino acid sequence of the protein
Explanation
The primary structure of a protein is simply the linear amino acid sequence from which the protein is made. Secondary structure refers to the folding and coiling of this single strand as it interacts with itself, forming hydrogen bonds between amino acids of that strand. Alpha helices and beta-pleated sheets are two different types of secondary structures that can be formed by hydrogen-bonding between amino acids of a protein sequence that has folded over onto itself. Tertiary structure refers to the final three-dimensional structure of a single protein subunit. Quaternary structure refers to the non-covalent interactions between multiple protein subunits which come together to form a larger protein.