Protein Structure

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding protein structure, including definitions and functions of various types of protein structures, bond formations, and the implications of these structures on biological function.

Peptide Bond

An amide bond formed between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another, resulting in a peptide.

Primary Structure

The linear sequence of amino acids in a protein.

Secondary Structure

The three-dimensional structure of the main chain atoms, primarily consisting of alpha-helix and beta-sheet formations.

Tertiary Structure

The overall three-dimensional arrangement of all atoms in a polypeptide chain, stabilizing interactions including hydrogen and disulfide bonds.

Quaternary Structure

The arrangement of two or more separate polypeptide chains in a protein.

Denaturation

The process of losing the normal structure of a protein, which results in a loss of function.

Collagen

A fibrous protein that provides structural support in tissues like skin and bone; it has quaternary structure.

Hydroxyproline

An amino acid formed post-translationally that stabilizes collagen due to hydrogen bonding.

Amphipathic Helices

Secondary structures with one hydrophobic face and one hydrophilic face.

Cis and Trans Peptide Bonds

Configurations of peptide bonds where 'cis' refers to R groups on the same side and 'trans' refers to R groups on opposite sides of the bond.

Supersecondary Structures

Combining secondary structures usually by the packing of side chains.

Non-covalent Interactions

Interactions that stabilize tertiary structure, including hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and hydrophobic interactions.

Disulfide Bonds

Covalent bonds formed between two cysteine residues that help stabilize tertiary structure.

Fibrous Proteins

Proteins that have chains arranged in long strands, providing support and shape.

Globular Proteins

Proteins that are folded into spherical shapes, commonly serving as enzymes and regulatory proteins.

Types of Quaternary Structure

Includes arrangements like alpha and beta chains in proteins, affecting functionality.