The Factor That Most Affects the Thermostability of a Protein

Question

The factor that most affects the thermostability of a protein is its
A) highly hydrophobic core regions.
B) folding pattern.
C) ionic surface interactions.
D) number of hydrogen bonds.

Accepted Answer

The folding pattern of a protein is the main factor that affects its thermostability. This is because the folding determines the protein's structure and stability, and any disruption to the folding can result in unfolding and loss of function. The other factors listed may also play a role, but they are not as significant as the folding pattern. For example, highly hydrophobic core regions and ionic surface interactions can contribute to protein stability, but they are not the primary determinant of thermostability. Similarly, the number of hydrogen bonds can affect protein stability, but it is not as crucial as the folding pattern.