Oligopeptides Definition, Formation and Structure Quiz

Explanation
Amanitin is a cyclic peptide found in the carpophores of several different mushroom species. It is known for its potent toxicity and is responsible for the majority of mushroom poisoning deaths worldwide. Amanitin inhibits RNA polymerase II, an enzyme involved in the transcription of DNA into RNA, leading to cell death.

Explanation
Leupeptin acts as a protease inhibitor. Proteases are enzymes that break down proteins by cleaving peptide bonds. Leupeptin inhibits the activity of proteases by binding to them and preventing them from carrying out their function. This inhibition helps to regulate protease activity and prevent excessive protein degradation.

Explanation
Tuftsin is a tetrapeptide that is manufactured in the spleen. It plays a crucial role in immune system regulation by stimulating the production of certain white blood cells called phagocytes. These phagocytes help in the elimination of foreign substances and pathogens from the body. Therefore, tuftsin is an important peptide involved in the immune response and is produced in the spleen.

Explanation
Microcystins and microviridins are both examples of oligopeptides that are synthesized through ribosomal pathways. Microcystins are cyclic peptides produced by cyanobacteria, and they are known for their hepatotoxic effects. They are synthesized by non-ribosomal peptide synthetases (NRPS) encoded by genes within the cyanobacteria. Microviridins are protease inhibitors produced by cyanobacteria. They inhibit serine proteases and are also synthesized through ribosomal pathways. The genes encoding microviridin biosynthesis are found in the genomes of the cyanobacteria.

Explanation
Ceruletide is the correct answer because it is a decapeptide that is found in the skin of Hyla caerulea, which is a species of tree frog. Ceruletide is known for its pharmacological effects on the gastrointestinal system, including stimulating the release of digestive enzymes and increasing the contraction of the gallbladder and pancreas. It is often used in medical treatments for various gastrointestinal disorders.

Explanation
Ceruletide contains 10 amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and ceruletide is a peptide hormone that is derived from a larger protein called cholecystokinin. It is composed of a chain of 10 amino acids linked together. These amino acids are essential for the biological activity and function of ceruletide in the body.

Explanation
Leupeptin is a protease inhibitor that is isolated from Actinomycetes, a group of bacteria known for producing various bioactive compounds. It is an oligopeptide with the ability to inhibit proteolytic enzymes, particularly serine and cysteine proteases. Leupeptin is commonly used in laboratory research to prevent protein degradation and proteolysis.

Explanation
Teprotide is a synthetic nonapeptide because it is a peptide composed of nine amino acids that has been artificially created in a laboratory. It is not naturally occurring and is used as a medication for treating hypertension. Pepstatin, Microcystins, and Leupeptin are all naturally occurring peptides and not synthetic nonapeptides.

Explanation
Phalloidin is the correct answer because it is an oligopeptide that is produced from Amanita phalloides, commonly known as the death cap mushroom. Phalloidin is a toxic compound that binds to and stabilizes actin filaments, leading to disruption of cellular function and ultimately cell death. It is one of the main toxins responsible for the deadly effects of Amanita phalloides poisoning. Antipain, glutathione, and microcystins are not oligopeptides produced by Amanita phalloides.

Explanation
Glutathione is an oligopeptide that is conjugated with drugs to enhance their solubility for excretion. It plays a crucial role in drug metabolism and detoxification by facilitating the elimination of drugs and their metabolites from the body. Glutathione conjugation increases the water solubility of drugs, making them easier to eliminate through urine or bile. This process helps in the elimination of various xenobiotics and endogenous compounds, making glutathione an important component in drug metabolism and elimination.