[Campbell Biology P.128] Figure 5.17 presents a computer model of an antibody protein bound ... | Practice Question

Figure 5.17 presents a computer model of an antibody protein bound to a flu virus protein, generated using X-ray crystallography. What primary insight does this specific visualization technique, especially with the added "electron density map," provide about the interaction between these two proteins?

  • A: The amino acid sequence of the binding sites on both proteins.
  • B: The dynamic conformational changes occurring during the binding process.
  • C: The precise three-dimensional fit and complementary shapes between the interacting protein surfaces.
  • D: The specific types of chemical bonds (e.g., covalent, ionic) formed at the interaction interface.

Explanation

Figure 5.17's title is "Complementarity of shape between two protein surfaces," and the description mentions adding an "electron density map" in the region where the proteins meet. This clearly indicates that the model's primary purpose is to show the detailed fit and complementary shapes critical for protein-protein interactions.