Chem 2C

Proteins

Most abundant organic molecules in the body.

Amino Acids

Building blocks of proteins, with 20 different types that define the function of proteins.

Metabolic processes

Processes organized and facilitated by proteins.

Catalyze

To accelerate chemical reactions.

Simple proteins

Proteins that contain only amino acids.

Conjugated proteins

Proteins that contain amino acids and other organic or inorganic components.

Peptide bond

Bond formed between two amino acids during protein synthesis.

Primary structure of proteins

Sequence and number of amino acids linking together to form a peptide chain.

Tertiary structure of proteins

Overall shape of a single protein molecule determined by various interactions.

Denaturation

Process in which a protein unfolds, losing its characteristic shape and function.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as catalysts and speed up chemical reactions.

Fibrous protein

Proteins used for adding strength to tissues or cells, with a long, stringy shape.

Globular protein

Chemically active molecule, often water-soluble, with a convoluted, changeable shape.

Disulfide bridge

Covalent bond between the sulfur atoms of cysteine residues that can hold protein structures together.

Nucleic acids

Composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorus; include DNA and RNA.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

Energy currency of cells, composed of adenine, ribose, and three phosphate groups.

Hydrophobic regions

Areas in proteins that tend to exclude water, important in stabilizing protein structure.

Quaternary structure of proteins

Structure formed when two or more protein chains join to form a macromolecule.

Transport proteins

Proteins that bind and transport small molecules and ions through the body.

Protective proteins

Proteins that protect the body from pathogens, such as antibodies.