Proteins

Question 1

What is the primary structure of a protein?

Answer 1

The linear sequence of amino acids

Question 2

What is the secondary structure of a protein?

Answer 2

The chain folds into alpha helices and beta pleated sheets

Question 3

What is the tertiary structure of a protein?

Answer 3

The overall 3D shape of the protein through the secondary structures and interactions between the amino acid side chains

Question 4

What is the quaternary structure of a protein?

Answer 4

Multiple proteins with unique tertiary structures interact in a multi protein complex

Question 5

What are chaperones? How do they work?

Answer 5

Proteins that facilitate the folding of other proteins. They bind to and stabilize unfolded/partially folded proteins and stop aggregation and degradation. They also poke the protein back into the right shape if it starts to misfold

Question 6

What types of cells are chaperones found in?

Answer 6

All cells, all types, in every part. Their structure and function is conserved in all organisms

Question 7

Why do proteins bind to other things?

Answer 7

It changes their shape and turns them on or off temporarily. When they detach, it goes back to its original shape

Question 8

What is complementarity?

Answer 8

Proteins have a lock and key fit with their binding partners and use transient bonds (H-bonds, van der Waals, ionic)