Chapter 4.3, Problem 10SAQ

Summary Introduction

To name:

And to describe two ways that protein acquires new function in the course of evolution.

Introduction:

The unpredictable change in the structure or amount of DNA of an organism is known as mutation. The mutation that occurs in the somatic cells does not pass from one generation to the next. Those mutations that occur in the formation of gametes will be inherited by the offspring. Proteins are the amino acid chains that acquire their biological properties by folding into a unique 3D structure.

Explanation of Solution

The ways by which protein acquires new function in the course of evolution are:

1. The combination of the different folding domains leads to the formation of new protein with a different function compared to the native protein. The change of the amino acids folds together in a specified position to form a protein. The alteration in the combination of the folding of amino acids leads to the evolution of a new protein.

2. Mutation and selection of the mutated protein. Mutation in a single amino acid present on the primary structure of the protein will lead to the change in the functioning of a protein. The proteins fold and become functional by the specific bonding between the amino acids. Due to the mutation in the amino acid, the folding of the protein will be affected. This leads to the evolution of new protein function. The mutated protein is selected by the body and it can be inherited by the offspring.

Conclusion

Proteins acquire new functions by combining the different folding domains. They also evolve due to the changes in the amino acid sequences due to mutation and selection process.