Fibrous Protein Flashcards
What are fibrous proteins primarily responsible for in the body?
Structural functions
Fibrous proteins provide support and shape to various tissues.
Name two examples of fibrous proteins.
- Collagen
- Elastin
- Keratin
What is the most abundant protein in the human body?
Collagen
Collagen makes up about 25% of the dry protein weight of the human body.
What determines the type and organization of collagen in the body?
The structural role of collagen in a particular organ.
How is collagen organized in tendons?
Bundled in tight parallel fibers to provide great strength.
In which part of the body does collagen stack to transmit light with minimum scattering?
In the cornea.
What is the primary structure of collagen?
Amino acids sequence (Gly-X-Y)
X is typically proline, and Y is hydroxyproline or hydroxylysine.
What is the composition of the secondary structure of collagen?
Three polypeptides called alpha chains in a triple helix.
What role do hydroxyproline and hydroxylysine play in collagen?
They stabilize the helix through post-translational modification.
What is the consequence of Vitamin C deficiency on collagen biosynthesis?
Inhibits hydroxylation of proline and lysine
This leads to decreased tensile strength of fibers and symptoms like poor wound healing.
What disease is associated with Vitamin C deficiency?
Scurvy.
What is one effect of a mutation that interferes with collagen cross-linking?
Decrease in tensile strength needed for proper function.
What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome characterized by?
Stretchy skin and loose joints.
What is Osteogenesis imperfecta commonly known as?
Brittle bone syndrome.
Where is elastin commonly found in the body?
- Lung
- Wall of blood vessels
- Ligaments
