Which one of the following best describes why chymotrypsinogen needs to be made before chymotrypsin?

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BlackTom AI · Accepted Answer

Analyzing the biology question, we consider why a zymogen (chymotrypsinogen) must be produced before the active enzyme (chymotrypsin).
Option 1: 'Chymotrypsinogen breaks proteins down into the amino acids that are needed for chymotrypsin synthesis' This is not accurate because the primary purpose of a zymogen is not to provide amino acids for itself, but to prevent premature enzymatic activity. Chymotrypsinogen isn’t used as a direct amino acid supplier for chymotrypsin synthesis.
Option 2: 'Chymotrypsinogen breakdown releases energy that is needed for chymotrypsin synthesis' This statement misunderstands the role of zymogens: there is no energy-releasing process from the zymogen that fuels enzyme synthesis. Protein translation relies on cellular energy in general, not from the zymogen’s own breakdown specifically.
Option 3: 'Chymotrypsin is much more water-soluble and can distribute through the blood to where chymotrypsin is needed' This is inaccurate biologically because digestive enzymes like chymotrypsin function in the digestive tract, not freely in the bloodstream, and solubility alone doesn’t justify making an inactive precursor.
Option 4: 'If active chymotrypsin was made immediately it might break peptide bonds at undesired locations' This is correct conceptually: chymotrypsin is a protease with broad specificity; making it active too early could lead to autolysis or damage to host tissues, so it’s synthesized as an inactive form (zymogen) and activated in a controlled environment to prevent unintended proteolysis.
In summary, the core idea is safety and control: zymogen forms prevent premature or misplaced proteolytic activity, ensuring activation occurs only where appropriate. The other options either misrepresent the role of zymogens or rely on incorrect biological premises about energy, amino acid supply, or systemic distribution of a digestive enzyme.

Which one of the following best describes why chymotrypsinogen needs to be made before chymotrypsin?

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