The final three-dimensional conformation, or ______ structure of each hemoglobin

Question

The final three-dimensional conformation, or ______ structure of each hemoglobin subunit spatially aligns the individual amino acids in such a way that the bonding forces exert themselves between specific amino acid side groups. This structure is disrupted in sickle-cell disease. In sickle-cell disease, a mutation in the gene for the beta subunits of hemoglobin results in the replacement of a single glutamic acid residue with one of ______. This results from a mutation by base substitution or a point mutation of a single nucleotide. In sickle-cell disease, quaternary structure of hemoglobin is disrupted because glutamic acid has a charged, polar side group, while the point mutation results in replacement with a(n) ______ side group. True or False: Due to the point mutation, when red blood cells in a person with sickle-cell trait are exposed to low oxygen levels, their hemoglobin precipitates, which contorts the red blood cells to a crescent shape and renders them non-functional. True or False: Patients that have sickle-cell trait and expose themselves to high altitudes will be fine as long as they take analgesics and rest for a few weeks after they descend from their climb.

Explanation / Answer

Ans 1: Sickle, Because in this condition the hemoglobin becomes a sickle cell.

Ans 2: Valine, at the sixth position where otherwise glutamic acid is present.

Ans 3: Beta side group

Ans 4: True, It causes sickling of normal cell which is incapable of carrying oxygen.

Ans 5: False. Because at high altitude the RBC gets concentrated and causes more problem of hypoxia.

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