Chapter 21, Problem 94E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The nonlethal substitution for single glutamic acid in normal hemoglobin by glutamine is to be explained.

Concept introduction: Amino acids are defined as organic compounds which contain amine $\left(-N{H}_2\right)$ and carboxyl $\left(-COOH\right)$ functional groups, along with a side chain (R group) attached to each amino acid. Hemoglobin is an oxygen transport metalloprotein, containing iron as a central metal atom. Glutamic acid and glutamine are amino acids produced in the muscles and are used in the biosynthesis of proteins.

To determine: The explanation for a nonlethal substitution of glutamic acid by glutamine in hemoglobin.