Side-chain interactions - the "Big Three"
Major types of noncovalent interactions that one sees again and again in Biochemistry :
1) charge/charge (electrostatic / Coulomb interactions)
2) H-bonding
3) Hydrophobic interactions .
Dr. Gerry Reeck calls these "The Big Three"
Consider several side chains -- note: side chains -- of amino acids. For each side chain listed, indicate which interaction or interactions (from The Big Three) each side chain could participate in, based on its structure.
For Gly, you would say "none." But for all those I do list the answer will be one, two or even three of The Big Three. Assume pH of 7 in formulating your answers unless otherwise indicated.
Val:
Phe:
His: analyze the form that predominates below pH 6.
Tyr:
Ser:
Met:
Lys (at pH below the side chain pKa):