Correct option is D
Explanation-
Dehydrins are part of the LEA (Late Embryogenesis Abundant) protein family found in plants.
They are expressed under stress conditions such as dehydration (drought), cold (freezing), high salinity and ABA hormone signaling. Their main role is to protect cells and cellular structures from damage caused by water loss or ice crystal formation.
Option A - "Dehydrins are intrinsically disordered proteins."
Dehydrins belong to the LEA (Late Embryogenesis Abundant) protein family. They are intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), meaning they lack a fixed or ordered 3D structure under physiological conditions. This disordered nature allows flexibility and interaction with various molecules during stress.
Option B - "Dehydrins have minimal secondary structure."
Because they are intrinsically disordered, they do not form stable α-helices or β-sheets in normal conditions. Their structure may become more ordered only when interacting with other molecules or under specific environmental conditions.
Option C - "Dehydrins are often induced by ABA (abscisic acid)."
ABA is a plant hormone that plays a major role in stress responses, especially during drought and cold. Dehydrin expression is often upregulated by ABA, helping plants survive dehydration by stabilizing proteins and membranes.
Incorrect option-
Option D - "Dehydrins are highly hydrophobic proteins."
Dehydrins are highly hydrophilic, not hydrophobic. Their hydrophilicity allows them to interact with water molecules and protect cell structures from desiccation (drying out). They often act as molecular shields or osmoprotectants.
Since option D is the only incorrect option that makes it a correct answer.
