Protein Structure and Analysis

Vocabulary flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to protein structure and analysis.

Proteins

Biomolecules consisting of one or more long chains of amino acids, serving various functions such as enzymes and structural roles.

Functions of proteins

Enzymes, cell transport, structure, antibodies

Amino Acids

Organic compounds that combine to form proteins; there are 20 naturally occurring amino acids.

Peptide Bonds

Covalent bonds that link amino acids together in a protein.

Dehydration Synthesis

The process of joining two molecules by removing water, forming peptide bonds between amino acids.

Primary Structure of Protein

The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Secondary Structure of Protein

The local folded structures that form within a protein due to hydrogen bonding, such as α-helices and β-pleated sheets.

Tertiary Structure of Protein

The overall 3D shape of a polypeptide, formed by interactions between R groups.

Quaternary Structure of Protein

The assembly of multiple polypeptide chains into a single functional protein complex. held together by covalent bonds

Enzymes

Proteins that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions by lowering activation energy.

Structure of proteins

determines the function also what substate binds to the enzyme

Denaturation

The process by which a protein loses its shape and function due to external stress or conditions.

Assays

Tests used to indicate the presence, activity, and concentration of biological substances.

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay)

A laboratory technique used for detecting and quantifying substances such as proteins and antibodies.

Direct ELISA

A type of ELISA that uses a labeled antibody to directly bind to the antigen.

Indirect ELISA

A type of ELISA that uses a primary antibody to bind the antigen, followed by a labeled secondary antibody to enhance the signal.

Sandwich ELISA

A type of ELISA that captures an antigen between two antibodies to improve specificity.

Competitive ELISA

A method that measures antigen concentration based on competition with a labeled antigen for binding.

Indicator Assays

if its present or not (Biuret test)

Activity Assay

determines if a compound is not only present but also active

Concentration Assays

determines how much of the product there is either through estimation or, more accurately, through spectrometry. ELISA can be used if there is a mixture of molecules.

Pharmacokinetic Assay

designed to show how a drug is metabolized in the body

Pharmacodynamic Assay

designed to show the biochemical effect of a drug on the body

Potency Assays

determine how the dosage of the drug affects its activity

Toxicology Assays

show what quantities of the drug are toxic to cells, tissues, and model organisms (determines appropriate dosage for humans)

Stability Assays

determines shelf-life and proper storage conditions

Applications of ELISA

medical diagnostics, food safety, biotechnology, pharmaceutical research, monitoring immune responses