[04] Protein Structure and Function Flashcards
What are the four levels of protein structure?
- Primary structure
- Secondary structure
- Tertiary structure
- Quaternary structure
What is the primary structure of a protein?
The sequence of amino acids in a protein.
What are the two types of secondary structure in proteins?
- Alpha helix
- Beta sheet
What is the tertiary structure of a protein?
The three-dimensional shape of a protein, determined by interactions among various side chains (R groups) of amino acids.
What is the quaternary structure of a protein?
The structure resulting from the association of two or more polypeptide chains (subunits) into one functional protein.
What is the function of proteins in the body?
Perform a vast array of functions within organisms, including catalyzing metabolic reactions, DNA replication, responding to stimuli, providing structure to cells and organisms, and transporting molecules from one location to another.
How does a protein’s structure determine its function?
The specific order of amino acids in a protein (its primary structure) determines the shape of the protein (its secondary and tertiary structure), and the shape of the protein determines its function.
What are enzymes?
Proteins that act as biological catalysts.
How do enzymes work?
They speed up chemical reactions by lowering the activation energy.
What happens when a protein denatures?
It loses its structure and function due to changes in temperature, pH, or chemical environment.
What is the role of protein in muscle function?
Proteins form the contractile elements of muscle tissue.
What is hemoglobin?
A protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.
What is collagen?
The most abundant protein in animals, providing structure and support in connective tissue.
DNA - Initials
Deoxyribonucleic Acid
What is an antibody?
A protein produced by the immune system to recognize and neutralize foreign substances.
