MCAT Biochemistry Question 52: Answer and Explanation
Home > MCAT Test > MCAT biochemistry practice tests
Test Information
- Use your browser's back button to return to your test results.
- Do more MCAT biochemistry practice tests.
Question: 52
7. Which of the following enzymes cleaves polysaccharide chains and yields maltose exclusively?
- A. α-Amylase
- B. β-Amylase
- C. Debranching enzyme
- D. Glycogen phosphorylase
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
β-Amylase cleaves amylose at the nonreducing end of the polymer to yield maltose exclusively, while α-amylase, choice (A), cleaves amylose anywhere along the chain to yield short polysaccharides, maltose, and glucose. Debranching enzyme, choice (C), removes oligosaccharides from a branch in glycogen or starches, while glycogen phosphorylase, choice (D), yields glucose 1-phosphate.