Chapter 24, Problem 53A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The two common patterns found in the folding of protein chains are described.

Concept introduction: A peptide is a short chain of amino acids bonded together by chemical bonds (referred to as peptide bonds). A polypeptide is a long chain that consists of connected amino acids. A protein consists of at least one polypeptide chain.

Answer to Problem 53A

Helixes and sheets are two common patterns seen in the folding of peptide chains.

Explanation of Solution

A protein is made up of one or more long chains of amino acids known as polypeptides. The information in its corresponding gene determines the sequence of a protein chain.

Two common patterns found in the folding of protein chains are as follows:

1. Protein chains may be folded into helixes like the double helix seen in DNA.
2. Protein chains can be folded into sheets such that they are placed next to one another side by side.

Conclusion

Helixes and sheets are two common patterns seen in the folding of peptide chains.