You are studying the protein-folding characteristics of a particular protein. You find that under certain conditions the protein does not fold correctly and it precipitates within the cytosol. Which of the following processes is most directly responsible for aggregation and precipitation of the misfolded protein in the cytoplasm?
A) attachment of palmitate to the C-terminus
B) exposure of hydrophobic residues on the surface of the protein
C) formation of incorrect disulfide bonds between pairs of cysteine residues
D) nonenzymatic glycosylation of amino groups by free glucose
E) phosphorylation of threonine or serine side chains

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Exposure of hydrophobic residues on the surface of the protein can lead to aggregation and precipitation of the misfolded protein in the cytoplasm.  The correct folding of proteins involves several different forces. One of the strongest forces is hydrophobic interactions whereby, hydrophobic amino acids tend to be excluded from the aqueous surface of proteins. The exposure of hydrophobic amino acids to the surface of a protein due to improper folding could tend to lead to aggregation.

You Are Studying the Protein-Folding Characteristics of a Particular Protein