Protein Digestion and Function

These flashcards cover key concepts related to amino acids, protein structures, functions, digestion, absorption, and health implications of protein in diets.

What are the main chemical elements found in amino acids?

Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.

How many amino acids are classified as essential?

9 amino acids are essential.

What is a peptide bond?

A bond that links amino acids together.

What is the primary structure of a protein?

The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

What process deactivates pepsin in the small intestine?

Increase in pH.

What are the roles of proteins in the body?

Building blocks for structures, enzymes, hormones, fluid balance regulators, and antibodies.

What is protein denaturation?

Disruption or destruction of protein structures causing loss of function.

What is the function of tRNA in protein synthesis?

tRNA lines up amino acids in the correct sequence during translation.

What is a quaternary protein structure?

A protein formed from two or more polypeptide chains interacting.

How is insulin related to protein structure?

Insulin consists of 51 amino acids linked in two polypeptide chains.

What is the difference between proteases and small intestinal peptidases?

Proteases target proteins, while peptidases target di- and tri-peptides.

What type of balance indicates health in terms of protein?

Nitrogen equilibrium.

What are complementary proteins?

Combining different plant proteins to provide all essential amino acids.

What are the consequences of protein deficiency?

Protein-energy malnutrition, resulting in conditions like Marasmus and Kwashiorkor.

What is the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein in healthy adults?

0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.

What can high-protein diets risk in regard to kidney health?

They can accelerate kidney deterioration due to increased workload from deamination.

What is the main function of urea in the body?

It excretes unused nitrogen produced from deamination.

What are the primary types of protein structures?

Primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures.

What health risks are associated with high protein intake from animal sources?

Increased risk of heart disease and potential cancer risk associated with processed meats.

How do amino acids contribute to energy during starvation?

The body can use amino acids from proteins to produce glucose via gluconeogenesis.

What is the role of collagen in the body?

It serves as a building block for body structures.

What is a factor that affects protein digestibility?

The source of protein and whether it is consumed with other foods.

What happens during protein synthesis when there is an error in amino acid sequencing?

It can result in altered protein shape and function, such as in sickle cell anemia.

Which proteins have higher digestibility, animal or plant proteins?

Animal proteins generally have 90-99% absorption compared to plant proteins which have 70-90%.

What is the AMDR for protein intake?

10 to 35 percent of total daily energy intake.

What are some notable food sources of high-quality proteins?

Meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products.