Why would a deletion mutation in the DNA base sequence lead to the production of a non-functional enzyme?

Because the deletion mutation would cause a frame shift in the DNA base sequence and hence would lead to the formation of new base triplets. As a result, the primary structure of the enzyme would be different and hence hydrogen bonds would be formed between molecules at different positions on the amino acid chain. Therefore, the primary structure would fold differently to produce a differently shaped secondary structure and consequently a differently shaped tertiary structure- the enzymes active site. This newly formed active site wouldn’t be complementary to the substrate that fit into the enzymes original active site and hence the enzyme produced would be non-functional.

AM
Answered by Aoife M. Biology tutor

3454 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe how the sequence of bases in a DNA molecule would be used to form the primary structure of a protein.


Outline the main differences between prokaryotic cells and eukaryotic cells.


Why is sickle cell disease most common among people living in tropical regions, and their descendants?


How does adrenaline, using the second messenger model, cause glycogenolysis?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences