Protein Structure and Folding

These flashcards cover key concepts related to protein structure, folding, and associated diseases.

Tertiary Structure

The 3D shape of the entire protein, stabilized by interactions between the R groups of amino acids.

Disulfide Bridges

Covalent bonds formed between the sulfhydryl (SH) groups of cysteines.

Van der Waals Interactions

Weak electrostatic interactions between nonpolar molecules due to charge fluctuations in the electron clouds of atoms.

Hydrophobic Interactions

Interactions where hydrophobic (water-fearing) R groups fold to the interior of the protein to avoid contact with water.

Protein Domains

Subunits within a protein that carry out specific functions; a single protein can have multiple domains.

Transcription Factor

A protein that binds to DNA; requires a DNA binding domain and a transcriptions activation domain to function.

Chaperone Proteins

Proteins that assist other proteins in folding and/or refolding into their proper shape.

Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

A disease caused by a mutation in the CFTR gene that blocks proper protein folding, leading to thick mucus and breathing difficulties.

Alzheimer’s Disease

A condition characterized by misfolded proteins that form tangles and plaques, which damage neurons in the brain.

Protein Misfolding Diseases

Diseases believed to be primarily caused by protein misfolding, including Parkinson's, Huntington's, and Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease.