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Chapter 6: Q19. (page 159)

Why can’t proteins have mirror symmetry?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Proteins cannot have mirror symmetry because the conversion of chiral L residues to chiral D residues takes place during the association of the subunits.

Step by step solution

01

Symmetrical arrangement of protein subunits

In an oligomeric protein, the subunits are symmetrically arranged, where each subunit monomer acquires a geometrically equivalent position in the oligomer.

02

Symmetry of the oligomeric protein

The oligomeric protein brings the subunits into coincidence. Chiral L residues are converted to chiral D residues to make that happen. Because of this conversion, the proteins cannot have mirror symmetry.

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