Protein structure and function

Question 1

Define a protein

Answer 1

Proteins are made of amino acids which link up together, and this forms a polymer called polypeptide.

Question 2

Define a peptide bond.

Answer 2

Peptide bonds are strong covalent bonds between 2 amino acids.

Question 3

How is a polypeptide chain read?

Answer 3

From the N terminus to the C terminus.

Question 4

What is the primary structure of protein?

Answer 4

A sequence of amino acids linked together, they DO NOT fold.

Question 5

What is secondary structure?

Answer 5

The sequence of amino acids will fold into specific patters called the alpha helices and beta sheets. The alpha helices coils into a spiral shape whilst beta sheets are arranged side by side sheets.

Question 6

Describe tertiary structure.

Answer 6

After the amino acids are folded into alpha helices and beta sheets, it will fold further into 3D shape. If the side chains are hydrophobic, it will cluster tighter together away from water. If the side chains are hydrophilic, it will be outside, interacting with water.

Question 7

What is the hydrophobic effect?

Answer 7

The effect is the key driver to fold protein in a certain way during the formation of the tertiary structure of a protein.