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Multiple Choice
Which type of chemical modification of a protein is known to have the widest variety of activities?
A
Acetylation
B
Methylation
C
Glycosylation
D
Phosphorylation
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of protein modification: Protein modifications are chemical changes to proteins that can alter their function, activity, or localization. These modifications are crucial for regulating cellular processes.
Identify the types of protein modifications: Common types include acetylation, methylation, glycosylation, and phosphorylation. Each has distinct roles and effects on protein function.
Explore phosphorylation: Phosphorylation involves the addition of a phosphate group (PO₄³⁻) to a protein, typically on serine, threonine, or tyrosine residues. This modification can activate or deactivate enzymes, alter protein interactions, and affect cellular signaling pathways.
Compare the variety of activities: Phosphorylation is known for its versatility in regulating a wide range of cellular activities, including metabolism, cell division, and signal transduction. It is a reversible modification, allowing dynamic control of protein function.
Conclude why phosphorylation is the correct answer: Due to its ability to influence numerous cellular processes and its role in signaling pathways, phosphorylation is recognized as having the widest variety of activities among protein modifications.