Molecules of Life: Proteins, Nucleic Acids, and Review

These flashcards cover key concepts related to proteins and nucleic acids, including definitions, structures, functions, and examples.

Proteins

The most diverse group of macromolecules, comprising more than 50% of the dry weight of a cell and composed of amino acids.

Amino Acids

The building blocks of proteins, with 20 naturally occurring types.

Polypeptide

A polymer of amino acids, which folds into a specific 3D shape to form a protein.

Peptide Bond

The bond that connects amino acids together in a polypeptide.

Primary Structure

The linear chain of amino acids held together by peptide bonds.

Secondary Structure

The folded structures within a polypeptide, maintained by hydrogen bonds.

Tertiary Structure

The 3D shape of a protein, maintained by interactions and bonds between side chains (R-groups).

Quaternary Structure

The association of two or more polypeptides in a protein, not present in all proteins.

Nucleic Acids

Polymers of nucleotides, which store and transmit genetic information; types include DNA and RNA.

Gene

A section of DNA that carries information about one polypeptide.

Phosphodiester Linkage

The bond that connects nucleotides in a polynucleotide.

Enzymatic Proteins

Proteins that accelerate chemical reactions, such as digestive enzymes.

Defensive Proteins

Proteins that protect against disease, such as antibodies.

Transport Proteins

Proteins that transport substances, like hemoglobin transporting oxygen.

Hormonal Proteins

Proteins that coordinate an organism's activities, such as insulin.

Structural Proteins

Proteins that provide support, like keratin and collagen.

Hydrophobic

Referring to nonpolar side chains of amino acids, which do not interact with water.

Hydrophilic

Referring to polar side chains of amino acids, which interact with water.

Sickle-Cell Disease

A condition where a minor change in primary structure of hemoglobin leads to abnormal function and red blood cell shape.

Central Dogma of Molecular Biology

The process by which genetic information flows from DNA to RNA and finally to proteins.