Protein Functions and Structure

These flashcards cover key concepts regarding the structure, function, and importance of proteins in the body as discussed in the lecture.

Protein

A vital constituent of all organs, required to perform a variety of functions in the body.

Functions of Proteins

Includes promoting growth and repair, contributing to immune function, maintaining pH balance, and regulating fluid balance.

Albumin

The most abundant protein in the blood, important for carrying substances, but not a reliable indicator of protein status.

mRNA

Messenger RNA that transfers instructions from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes for protein synthesis.

Peptide bond

A chemical bond that connects amino acids into a polypeptide chain.

Primary structure of proteins

The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Secondary structure of proteins

The initial folding or coiling of a polypeptide chain into shapes like helices or sheets.

Tertiary structure of proteins

The three-dimensional shape that forms when the side chains of amino acids interact and fold.

Quaternary structure of proteins

The structure formed when multiple polypeptide chains join together to form a functional protein.

Sickle cell anemia

An inherited condition caused by a change in one amino acid in the hemoglobin protein, leading to misshapen red blood cells.

Protein

A vital constituent of all organs, required to perform a variety of functions in the body.

Functions of Proteins

Includes promoting growth and repair, contributing to immune function, maintaining pH balance, and regulating fluid balance.

Albumin

The most abundant protein in the blood, important for carrying substances, but not a reliable indicator of protein status.

mRNA

Messenger RNA that transfers instructions from DNA in the nucleus to the ribosomes for protein synthesis.

Peptide bond

A chemical bond that connects amino acids into a polypeptide chain.

Primary structure of proteins

The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Secondary structure of proteins

The initial folding or coiling of a polypeptide chain into shapes like helices or sheets.

Tertiary structure of proteins

The three-dimensional shape that forms when the side chains of amino acids interact and fold.

Quaternary structure of proteins

The structure formed when multiple polypeptide chains join together to form a functional protein.

Sickle cell anemia

An inherited condition caused by a change in one amino acid in the hemoglobin protein, leading to misshapen red blood cells.

Amino Acid

The basic organic building blocks of proteins, each containing an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a unique side chain, all attached to a central carbon atom.

Protein Synthesis

The biological process in which cells generate new proteins; it involves processes like transcription and translation.

Protein Denaturation

The process by which a protein loses its characteristic three-dimensional structure and function due to external factors such as heat, pH changes, or chemical agents.

Enzyme

A type of protein that acts as a biological catalyst, accelerating the rate of specific biochemical reactions without being permanently altered or consumed in the process.