Question

A single amino acid substitution in a protein causes sickle-cell disease. Identify the correct statements regarding it.

• A. It is an inherited blood disorder.
• B. Hydrophobic interactions between hemoglobin proteins lead to their aggregation into a fiber.
• C. Glutamic acid is replaced by valine in beta-globin chain of haemoglobin.
• D. The red blood cells in the patients are disc shaped and carry oxygen.
• E. Capacity to carry oxygen is greatly reduced.

Hint:

Sickle-cell disease results from a mutation in the hemoglobin gene that affects the shape and function of red blood cells.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding Sickle Cell Disease
Sickle cell disease is a genetic blood disorder resulting from a single amino acid change in hemoglobin: glutamic acid is replaced by valine. This substitution leads to hydrophobic interactions, causing hemoglobin to aggregate into fibers. These fibers deform red blood cells into a sickle shape, impairing their oxygen-carrying capacity.