Question

X represents a process that causes a protein to unfold and stop functioning. Process X is most likely caused by:

a) The digestion of the amino acids that make up the proteins
b) The synthesis of a protein with different simple sugars
c) Removal of the gene that codes for the production of the protein
d) An internal factor in the body, such as a temperature increase

Answer 1

Process X likely refers to denaturation, an internal process affected by factors like temperature increase that causes a protein to lose its structure and function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The process that causes a protein to unfold and stop functioning is known as denaturation. Process X, which most likely causes a protein to denature, is an internal factor such as a temperature increase. Proteins can unfold into almost linear polypeptide chains when denatured and lose their functionality. Denaturation can occur due to various external factors like changes in pH, exposure to certain chemicals, or heat.

However, while denaturation often affects the secondary and tertiary structures of a protein, it does not change the primary structure, which is the sequence of amino acids. Certain conditions, such as cooking an egg, cause irreversible denaturation, while other instances may allow the protein to return to its functional shape.