Which of the amino acids below is unlikely to be involved in the reaction mechanism at the active site of an enzyme?
A) alanine
B) serine
C) cysteine
D) histidine
E) aspartic acid

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While all amino acids have the potential to be involved in reaction mechanisms at the active site of an enzyme, alanine is the simplest amino acid and does not have any functional groups or side chains that are particularly reactive or able to participate in chemical reactions. Therefore, it is less likely to be directly involved in enzyme catalysis.

Which of the Amino Acids Below Is Unlikely to Be