Proteins Flashcards
What are proteins used for?
They are the major structural materials of animal tissue
They are involved in the maintenance and regulation of life processes
What are proteins made of?
Many amino acid molecules linked together by condensation reactions
What do amino acids contain?
The amino (-NH2) and carboxyl (-COOH) functional groups
R is a side chain
H R O
I I II
N—C—C
I I I
H H OH
How many common amino acids are used in the human body?
20
Condensation of 2 amino acids
H R O H R O
I I II I I II
N—C—C + N—C—C
I I I I I I
H H OH H H OH
H R O H R O
I I II I I II
N—C—C—N—C—C
I I I I
H H H OH
Peptide/amid link
What do the long-chain molecules form within proteins and how are they held together?
Spirals, sheets, or other complex shapes
They are held in these forms by intermolecular bonding between side chains of the the constituent amino acids
What happens when proteins are heated?
The intermolecular bonds are broken, allowing the proteins to change shape (denature)
The denaturing of proteins in foods causes the texture to change when it is cooled
What happens during digestion?
enzyme hydrolysis of protein produces amino acids
What are essential amino acids?
Amino acids that the body cannot make that must be acquired from the diet for protein synthesis
Are proteins polar or non-polar?
non-polar (not soluble in water)