The side chain (R group) of the amino acid serine is CH₂OH. The side chain of the amino acid leucine is CH₂CH(CH₃)₂. Where would
you expect to find these amino acids in a globular protein in aqueous solution?A) Both serine and alanine would be in the interior and on the exterior of the globular protein. B) Alanine would be in the interior, and serine would be on the exterior of the globular protein. C) Serine would be in the interior, and alanine would be on the exterior of the globular protein. D) Both serine and alanine would be in the interior of the globular protein. E) Both serine and alanine would be on the exterior of the globular protein.
The answer is B, Alanine would be in the interior and serine would be on the exterior of the globular protein.
Explanation:
To further explain, the nature of solubility of side chain determines the position of the amino acid in the globular protein.
The hydrophilic amino acid such as serine are on the outside of the globular protein while the hydrophic amino acids such as leucine and alanine are on the interior of the globular protein.
This is why Alanine would be in the interior and serine would be on the exterior of the globular protein.
