Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: All of these
Explanation:
Introduction:
Enzyme families are often grouped by their catalytic residues and mechanisms. Serine proteases utilize an activated serine (with His and Asp) to perform nucleophilic attack on peptide bonds. This question asks you to recognize classical members of this family.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Although their specificity pockets differ, trypsin, chymotrypsin, and elastase share the same core chemistry centered on Ser 195 activation through a charge-relay system. Therefore, all listed enzymes fall under the serine protease class.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Active-site serine can be specifically inhibited by diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) and related reagents across these enzymes, confirming a shared mechanism.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Assuming that different specificities imply different catalytic classes; here, specificity arises from the binding pocket, not the chemistry.
Final Answer:
All of these
Discussion & Comments