Proteins 2 Flashcards
What is the tertiary structure of a protein?
The tertiary structure occurs when there is even further twisting and folding of the secondary structure into a complex specific 3D shape
Why is the tertiary structure important for protein function?
It determines the protein’s shape, allowing it to recognise and interact with other molecules in a specific way
What are three types of bonds that maintain the tertiary structure of a protein?
Disulfide bridges
Ionic bonds
Hydrogen bonds
What are disulfide bridges?
Strong covalent bonds which are not easily broken
How do ionic bonds contribute to the tertiary structure?
Ionic bonds form between the carboxyl and amino groups that are not involved in the peptide bonds, but these can be broken easily by changes in pH
Why are hydrogen bonds in important in the tertiary structure?
They are numerous but weak, easily broken by temperature or pH chaneges
How does the primary structure of a protein influence its tertiary structure?
The sequence of amino acids determine where bonds form, shaping the final 3D structure
What is the quaternary structure of a protein?
A structure where multiple polypeptide chains are linked together, sometimes with non - protein groups
How do polypeptide chains interact in the quaternary structure?
They are linked in various ways to form a larger, function protein
What is an example of protein with a quaternary structure?
Haemoglobin, which consists of four polypeptide chains and haem (iron - containing) prosthetic group
What determines the final 3D shape of a protein?
The primary structure (sequence of amino acids) determines how the protein folds into its 3D shape
