Explain how a change in the primary structure may result in a non functional enzyme

A change in the primary structure means there has been a change in the amino acid sequence.This may cause different hydrogen bonding to occur, leading to a different secondary structure.This may lead to different folding due to different hydrogen, ionic and disulphide bridge interactions. This may lead to a different tertiary structure, and therefore a different active site shape.Therefore the active site may no longer be complimentary to the substrate meaning that enzyme substrate complexes cannot form. Therefore, the enzyme is not functional.
This is a very common style of A level question which the student should understand how to answer. Underlined are the key words that a mark scheme is looking for.

SS
Answered by Sanskriti S. Biology tutor

10934 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Outline the process that occurs when an action potential arrives at a presynaptic neuron for the transmission to the postsynaptic neuron.


Explain how an action potential is transmitted across a cholinergic synapse.


Describe the process of ventilation, including the difference between active and passive expiration.


How does speciation occur?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning