Question

In a large cytosolic protein, about 15 amino acids can be "buried" in the protein, and are inaccessible to the cytosol. Which of the following amino acids is most likely to be "buried" in the interior of the protein?

1) Isoleucine
2) Arginine
3) Threonine
4) Aspartic Acid

Answer 1

Option 1.

Isoleucine, being a nonpolar amino acid, is most likely to be found buried within the interior of a cytosolic protein, avoiding interaction with the aqueous environment of the cytosol.

Step-by-step explanation:

When considering the composition of a large cytosolic protein, specific amino acids are more likely to be found buried within the interior of the protein, while others are more likely to be exposed on the surface.

The amino acids that are nonpolar in nature, like isoleucine, are typically found in the interior because they are hydrophobic and tend to avoid water.

On the other hand, polar and charged amino acids are generally found on the protein's surface, as they interact favorably with the aqueous cytosol.

Therefore, among those listed, Isoleucine is the most likely to be 'buried' in the interior of the protein.

To provide the requested final answer, the correct option is: 1) Isoleucine.