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Multiple Choice
The biochemical property of lectins that is the basis for most of their biological effects is their ability to bind to:
A
Amphipathic molecules.
B
Hydrophobic molecules.
C
Specific lipids.
D
Specific oligosaccharides.
E
Specific peptides.
F
Specific monosaccharides.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the role of lectins: Lectins are proteins that bind to specific carbohydrate molecules, which are often found on the surfaces of cells and pathogens.
Identify the types of molecules lectins can bind to: Lectins typically bind to carbohydrates, which include monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides.
Focus on oligosaccharides: Oligosaccharides are short chains of monosaccharide units, and lectins have a high specificity for these structures due to their unique binding sites.
Consider the biological significance: The binding of lectins to specific oligosaccharides is crucial for cell-cell recognition, signaling, and immune responses.
Conclude the key property: The ability of lectins to bind specifically to oligosaccharides is the basis for their biological effects, distinguishing them from binding to other types of molecules like lipids or peptides.