Question

Out of the following, which type of interaction is responsible for the stabilisation of α-helix structure of proteins ?

• A. van der Waals forces
• B. Covalent bonding
• C. Ionic bonding
• D. Hydrogen bonding

Hint:

In an $\alpha$-helix, the hydrogen bond occurs between the $n^{th}$ and $(n+4)^{th}$ amino acid residues.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: The $\alpha$-helix is a secondary structure of proteins.
Step 2: It is stabilized by intramolecular hydrogen bonding between the $-NH$ group of one amino acid residue and the >C=O group of an adjacent turn of the helix.