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Explain what happens if even one amino acid is substituted for another in a polypeptide chain. Provide a specific example.

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Answer:

It might affect the structure and function of the protein and may cause genetic disorders.

Step-by-step explanation:

Proteins are polymers of amino acids. A specific sequence of different amino acids imparts a protein a particular structure and function. Any change in the amino acids of a protein (substitution or change in the sequence of the amino acids) may affect the structure and thereby, its biological functions.

For example, sickle cell anemia is caused by a mutation that substitutes the amino acid glutamic acid in position six by valine in the beta chains of hemoglobin proteins. This substitution of single amino acid makes the mutant hemoglobin protein to form aggregates. RBCs containing the mutant hemoglobin become sickle-shaped and block the blood vessels.

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