exam 1 protein Flashcards
protein
Major structural component of all cells within the body that allows different biological components to retain their shape
Contains nitrogen, carbon, hydrogen, oxygen
May contain phosphorous, sulfur, iodine, or iron
amino acids
Building blocks of proteins
Create proteins when they are positioned in a particular order:
primary structure: the specific sequence of amino acids in each protein
polypeptide: 10 or more amino acids bonded together
proteins are large polypeptides
nonessential (dispensable) amino acids
Body is able to synthesize
Not required in the diet
essential (indispensable) amino acids
Body cannot synthesize
Must be provided through dietary sources
conditionally essential (acquired indispensable) amino acids
Can usually be synthesized by the body
Become essential under certain physiological conditions
Ex: glutamine
physiologic functions of proteins include
Tissue growth and maintenance
Synthesis of other proteins
Regulation of body processes and immune function
Provision of energy
primary function of protein
Supplies material for growth and maintenance of body tissues
anabolism: the production of new cellular material
catabolism: the breaking down or destruction of body tissues
anabolism and catabolism: continuous and simultaneous
Trauma and burns
dietary proteins
Provide about 1 gram of nitrogen for every 6.25 grams of protein consumed
When degraded, nitrogen is excreted through urine, feces, and sweat
enzymes
proteins that exist in all cells of living things:
allow biochemical reactions to accelerate
necessary for digestion and metabolism
catalysts for many biochemical reactions
proteins are necessary for manufacturing
enzymes
hormones
thyroid hormones
regulate metabolic rate and cellular development
insulin and glucagon
maintain stability of blood glucose concentrations
proteins act as a _____
buffer
buffer
compound that allows fluids and tissues to keep a constant PH
oncotic pressure
the effect of proteins on fluid balance
proteins and maintaining proper fluid balance
Proteins in blood vessels connecting arteries and veins pull fluid back into the capillaries.
This counteracts the pressure of the blood.
Component in cells used during an immune response
Edema – occurs when inadequate protein intake causes an accumulation of fluid in the tissue causing swelling