Actin Monomers and polymerization

Question

Protein X binds actin monomers. In a cell where the gene for X has been mutated so as to make the protein non-functional, polymerization decreases. Can you explain why and how this works?

Answer 1

Hi Brianna.

So this is a great question. I'll go back to the basics for a second. Your genes (DNA) hold your biological "code" for your proteins. Just like how computers & programs are made with codes, so are we. Our DNA tells our cells how to build proteins. If there is a mutation in the DNA, then that means there will be a mutation in that protein.

Your problem described protein x as a protein that grabs actin monomers (building blocks, like a lego piece) & attaches them together (like a finalized lego building). But if the gene for protein x is mutated, & protein x becomes non-functional (according to the question this is what happens), then this polymerization (putting together the lego pieces) cannot happen.

I hope this helps you.

Kindly,

Michael Greenberg