The Structural Level of a Protein Least Affected by a Disruption

Question

The structural level of a protein least affected by a disruption in hydrogen bonding is the
A)primary level.
B)secondary level.
C)tertiary level.
D)quaternary level.
E)All structural levels are equally affected.

Accepted Answer

Hydrogen bonding primarily impacts the stability of secondary structure elements, such as alpha helices and beta sheets. The disruption of hydrogen bonds on the primary level of a protein (the linear sequence of amino acids) would likely result in a different amino acid sequence altogether, which could significantly impact the protein's function. Disruption of hydrogen bonds on the tertiary or quaternary level can also have significant impacts on protein structure and function. However, the question specifically asks about which level is least affected, and the answer is the primary level.