The GATE Grind

GATE 2021 BT – Question 24

General Biology · Biochemistry: Biomolecules, biological membranes, channels and pumps, molecular motors, action potential and transport · 1 mark · Multiple choice

A protein without its prosthetic group is known as

  1. apoprotein
  2. hemoprotein
  3. holoprotein
  4. lipoprotein

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) apoprotein

Explanation

A conjugated protein has two parts:
- the protein part, and
- a non-protein part called the **prosthetic group** (for example haem, a metal ion, or a vitamin).

The names:
- **Apoprotein:** the protein **without** its prosthetic group (inactive). ✓
- **Holoprotein:** the apoprotein **with** its prosthetic group, the complete active form.
- **Haemoprotein:** a protein that has a haem group (such as haemoglobin).
- **Lipoprotein:** a protein combined with lipids.

Answer **apoprotein** (A).