A polypeptide chain contains two terminals – one carboxyl-termin...
During translation, the first amino acid attached has an amino free end and the last amino acid has a carboxyl free end. Hence, the N terminal is represented on the left side and C terminal on the right side.
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A polypeptide chain contains two terminals – one carboxyl-termin...
Understanding Polypeptide Chains
A polypeptide chain is a sequence of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, and it has distinct ends: the amino-terminal (N terminal) and carboxyl-terminal (C terminal).
Translation Process
- During protein synthesis (translation), the ribosome assembles amino acids in a specific order.
- The synthesis begins at the N terminal and proceeds toward the C terminal.
Synthesis Directionality
- The N terminal is synthesized first, and thus it is represented on the left side of the polypeptide chain.
- The C terminal, being the last part synthesized, is found on the right side.
Visual Representation
- In a linear representation of a polypeptide:
- N terminal is on the left side (amino group, -NH2).
- C terminal is on the right side (carboxyl group, -COOH).
Correct Answer Explanation
- Therefore, the statement "N terminal is represented on the left side and C terminal on the right side" is correct.
- This understanding is crucial for interpreting protein structure and function, as the orientation plays a significant role in biochemical interactions.
In summary, the N terminal is always on the left, while the C terminal is on the right, which aligns with the synthesis direction in translation.