Final answer:
Hsp70 is a chaperone protein that mediates correct protein folding by controlling the unfolding and refolding steps. It assists in ensuring that mitochondrial proteins are in the correct state before refolding.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hsp70 is a chaperone protein that mediates correct protein folding. It controls the unfolding of mitochondrial proteins as they enter the matrix and facilitates the refolding of proteins into their biologically active shape. Here are the steps involved:
- The completed mitochondrial protein is unable to cross the membrane, so it requires the Hsp70 protein as a chaperone.
- As the protein enters the matrix, Hsp70 controls its unfolding, ensuring that it is in the correct state for refolding.
- Once the signal peptide is removed, another Hsp70 molecule resident in the mitochondrion assists in refolding the protein into its biologically active shape.