Proteins Flashcards
What are proteins?
Proteins are the major structural materials of animal tissue and are also involved in the maintenance and regulation of life processes.
Explain, briefly, the function of collagen.
Collagen is found in the bones, tendons, and muscle, and gives structural support.
Explain, briefly, the function of haemoglobin.
Haemoglobin is found in red blood cells and is responsible for transporting red blood cells around the body.
What are enzymes?
Enzymes are proteins which act as biological catalysts.
What are amino acids?
Amino acids, the building blocks from which proteins are formed, are relatively small molecules which all contain an amino group, —NH2, and a carboxyl group, —COOH.
What gives rise to different proteins?
The sequence of different amino acids determines the molecule made and its properties.
How are proteins made?
Proteins are made of many amino acid molecules linked together by condensation reactions. In these reactions, the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another amino acid join, with the elimination of water.
What is the peptide / amide link?
CONH
How are essential amino acids obtained?
Once a protein is eaten it is broken down by the process of digestion (specifically hydrolysis) to form the amino acids that make that protein.
State, briefly, the significance of the NH bonds in amino acids and proteins.
Hydrogen bonding between protein molecules allows long protein strands to curl into different shapes.
What happens when a protein is heated?
When a protein is heated, the hydrogen bonds denature, causing a change in the protein’s shape. It also causes a change in texture of foods when cooked.
