Question

List the advantages of multiple subunits in proteins.

Short answer

There are several advantages of multiple subunits in proteins, such as resolving defects easily, having multiple active sites, proving the structural basis, etc.

Step-by-step solution

Multiple subunits in proteins

Most proteins contain more than one polypeptide chain of subunits. These subunits unite with a specific geometry to give the protein its quaternary structure.

Advantages of multiple subunits in proteins

There are multiple advantages of having multiple subunits in proteins over one huge polypeptide chain, which are as follows:

(a) Defect in one subunit could be resolved by replacing that defected subunit with a good subunit.

(b) Each subunit has its active site. Thus, increasing the size of an enzyme by adding identical subunits is more efficient than increasing the length of its polypeptide.

(c) The association of the subunits provides the structural basis for their functional activities.