Biological Functions of Proteins

Question 1

The functions of proteins are divided into three categories, name these categories

Answer 1

Structural proteins
Physiologically active proteins
Nutrient proteins

Question 2

What is meant by the structural function of proteins?

Answer 2

These are used to build parts of the body

Question 3

What is meant by the physiologically active functions of proteins

Answer 3

These assist with the normal functioning of the body

Question 4

What is meant by the nutrient functions of proteins?

Answer 4

These play a nutritional role within the body

Question 5

List the structural functions of proteins

3

Answer 5

Production of cell membranes, muscle issue and skin
Cell repair and replacement
Growth

Question 6

List the physiologically active functions of proteins

5

Answer 6

Production of hormonal proteins 
Production of enzymes 
Production of antibodies 
Production of blood proteins 
Production of nucleoproteins

Question 7

What are hormonal proteins?

Answer 7

This help to coordinate bodily activities such as the production of insulin

Question 8

What are enzymes?

Answer 8

These speed up chemical reactions such as pepsin which speeds up the breakdown of proteins in food

Question 9

What are antibodies?

Answer 9

Immunoglobulins

These defend the body from harmful substances such as viruses

Question 10

What are blood proteins

Answer 10

These move molecules around the body such as haemoglobin which transports oxygen through the blood

Question 11

What are nucleoproteins

Answer 11

DNA

These make up the heredity material in chromosomes

Question 12

List the nutrient functions of proteins

2

Answer 12

Provide the body with essential amino acids

Excess can be used as a source of energy when carbohydrate and fat reserves are used

Question 13

List the effects of protein deficiency

5

Answer 13

Retarded growth 
Delayed healing of wounds 
Susceptibility to disease and infection 
Lack of energy 
Kwashiorkor and Marasmus in severe cases