What Would You Expect About the Formation of an α-Helix

question 11

Multiple Choice

What would you expect about the formation of an α-helix for a segment of a protein chain that contains lysine approximately every fourth residue with all other residues being mostly hydrophobic?

• A)Helix formation would be favored at low pH.
• B)Helix formation would be favored at high pH.
• C)Helix formation would be favored at neutral pH.
• D)Helix formation would never occur regardless of pH.

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Definitions:

Amphipathic Molecule

A molecule containing both hydrophobic and hydrophilic regions.

Hydrophobic End

The part of a molecule that repels water, often found in molecules like lipids that have both hydrophilic (water-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) ends.

Hydrophilic End

The part of a molecule that is attracted to water, allowing it to dissolve or interact favorably with water molecules.

Condensation Reaction

A reaction in which two monomers are combined covalently through the removal of the equivalent of a water molecule; also called condensation synthesis. Compare with hydrolysis reaction.