Assertion: The structural diversity of glycans exceeds that of proteins. Reason: Glycans are not assembled using a genetic template and can form branched chains with variable linkages.

Appeared in: INI-CET EXAM -2026

Explanation

The assertion is true: Glycans (carbohydrates) exhibit far greater structural complexity than proteins due to the combinatorial possibilities of their assembly.
The reason is also true: Unlike proteins, which are built from a genetic template into linear chains, glycans are synthesized enzymatically without a template.
This non-template synthesis allows for the formation of branched structures with various types of glycosidic bonds (e.g., α/β configurations, different carbon linkages like 1-4, 1-6).
Therefore, the reason correctly and directly explains the assertion. The lack of a template and the capacity for branching are the fundamental causes of the immense diversity of glycans.

Option A: This option claims the Reason (R) is false. However, it is a fact that glycans are not assembled using a genetic template and can form branched chains.
Option B: This option claims the Assertion (A) is false. However, the structural potential of glycans is mathematically and biologically proven to be much larger than that of proteins.
Option D: This option correctly identifies that both statements are true but incorrectly claims that R is not the explanation for A. The ability to branch and use variable linkages (R) is the very definition of why glycan diversity (A) is so vast.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Comparison of structural diversity between glycans and proteins as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
The ABO blood group system is a direct clinical application of glycan diversity. The A, B, and O antigens are specific carbohydrate structures on the surface of red blood cells.
Many viruses (like influenza) and bacteria use specific host cell surface glycans as receptors to initiate infection. The diversity of these glycans influences host susceptibility.
Changes in glycosylation patterns on cell surfaces are a hallmark of cancer. These altered glycans can be used as biomarkers for diagnosis and are targets for therapy.

How to Approach the Question

This is an Assertion-Reason question. Follow a systematic, three-step approach.
Step 1: Evaluate the Assertion (A). Read the statement 'The structural diversity of glycans exceeds that of proteins' and determine if it is true or false based on your knowledge of biochemistry.
Step 2: Evaluate the Reason (R). Read the statement 'Glycans are not assembled using a genetic template...' and determine if it is true or false.
Step 3: Evaluate the link. If both A and R are true, ask yourself: 'Does R correctly explain A?' In this case, ask 'Is the lack of a template and the ability to branch the reason why glycans are so diverse?'
Based on this analysis, select the option that matches your conclusions. If A and R are true and R explains A, the answer is C.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Comparison of structural diversity between glycans and proteins
Stem keywords: glycans, proteins, structural diversity, genetic template, branched chains, variable linkages
Lead-in keywords: Assertion, Reason, correct explanation

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E6 Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry2023 (pp 26-793 of 813) pp. 542-544, 138-140

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