Question

If a protein were chemically synthesized in hexane instead of water, would it retain the same structure? Of the levels of structure discussed, which would be the most likely to be affected?

Answer 1

No the structure wouldn't remain the same if synthesized in hexane instead of water. The tertiary structure of the protein would most likely to get affected. Because the tertiary structure of the protein is guided by the interaction among the side chain of the amino acid along with the environment, this inturn disrupts the active site and also it's functioning.

For example in water as a medium the hydrophobic groups would form bonds whereas this is not possible when the external medium is a non polar solvent like hexane.

Felt great to answer. Good luck!