Topic 2.4: Proteins Flashcards
Amino acids are joined together on the ribosome to form long chains called
polypeptides
The covalent bond between the amino acids is called
a peptide bond
Define primary structure of protein
The order of the amino acid sequence is called the primary structure and determines the way the chain will fold
Define secondary structure of protein
Amino acid sequences will commonly fold into two stable configurations, called secondary structures
Define tertiary structure of protein
The overall three-dimensional configuration of the protein is referred to as the tertiary structure of the protein
Define quaternary structure of protein
Certain proteins possess a fourth level of structural organisation called a quaternary structure
Quaternary structures are found in proteins that consist of more than one polypeptide chain linked together
When do alpha helices occur?
Alpha helices occur when the amino acid sequence folds into a coil / spiral arrangement
When do beta-pleated sheets occur?
Beta-pleated sheets occur when the amino acid sequence adopts a directionally-oriented staggered strand conformation
Define denaturation
a structural change in a protein that results in the loss (usually permanent) of its biological properties
What two conditions can cause denaturation of proteins?
temperature and pH
Define proteome
the totality of proteins expressed within a cell, tissue or organism at a certain time
collagen and spider silk are examples of what type of protein function?
structure
insulin and glucagon are examples of what type of protein function?
hormones
immunoglobins are examples of what type of protein function?
immunity
hemoglobin and cytochrome are examples of what type of protein function?
transport