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What disease was a really important enzyme discovered by protein folders related to?

A) Cancer
B) HIV
C) Sickle cell anemia
D) Malaria

User Naou
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1 Answer

5 votes

Final answer:

The enzyme related to a significant disease discovered by protein folders is reverse transcriptase, which plays a central role in the lifecycle of HIV. Research on this enzyme has been crucial in developing treatments for AIDS.

Step-by-step explanation:

The enzyme discovered by protein folders that has been particularly important in the context of research for disease treatment is related to HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). This enzyme is reverse transcriptase, which is brought into a cell by HIV (option D in the question posed). Reverse transcriptase is crucial to the HIV lifecycle as it converts the virus's RNA into DNA, which can then integrate into the host cell genome. Extensive research has been dedicated to understanding and inhibiting the function of enzymes like reverse transcriptase to improve treatments for AIDS patients. It is of note that mutations in enzymes can also have other health impacts, such as providing some resistance to other diseases, as is the case with mutations in the glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) gene, which, while causing a rare form of anemia, can make individuals less prone to malaria infection.

User Dturanski
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