Phospholipids and Proteins

Flashcards reviewing the structure and properties of phospholipids alongside the key functions, examples, monomer/polymer structure, composition, and energy value of proteins based on the lecture notes.

What is the chemical structure of a phospholipid?

Fatty acids plus 1 phosphate.

Which parts of a phospholipid are hydrophilic and hydrophobic?

The phosphate group is the hydrophilic head, and the fatty acid is the hydrophobic tail.

What structure forms the plasma membrane of our cells?

The phospholipid bilayer, which consists of 2 layers of phospholipids.

What do the terms hydrophilic and hydrophobic mean?

Hydrophilic means water loving, and hydrophobic means water hating.

How does the phospholipid bilayer affect the cell membrane's permeability?

It makes the membrane selectively permeable.

Why is there no single main function for proteins?

Because proteins run your body and carry out a wide variety of essential functions.

What is the function of enzymes in the body?

They control the rate of biochemical reactions.

What is the function of hormones, and what is an example provided in the notes?

Hormones regulate cell processes; an example is Insulin.

What structural protein makes up bones and muscles?

Collagen.

What is the function of Hemoglobin in the body?

Transport substances in and out of cell.

What role do antibodies play in the human body?

They help the immune system fight diseases.

What type of proteins are involved in movement?

Contractile proteins.

What is the function of cell receptors?

Receptors aid in cell signaling.

What protein is given as an example of an energy source in the food we eat?

Casein.

Where are proteins found in food, and how else are they produced?

They are found in meats, nuts, and dairy products, but many are made by your body.

Which chemical elements compose proteins?

C, H, O, N, P, S.

What is the monomer of a protein?

Amino Acids.

What is the polymer of a protein, and how are its monomers joined?

A Polypeptide, which consists of amino acids linked together by a peptide bond.

What is the energy storage value of proteins?

$$4\,\text{calories/gram}$$

Why are proteins usually the last resort if energy is needed by the body?

Because proteins do so much for the body.