Proteins

Proteins

Macromolecules made up of amino acids, used in building and repairing muscles.

Indispensable Amino Acids

Amino acids that the body cannot produce; there are 9 of them.

Dispensable Amino Acids

Amino acids that the body can produce through the liver; there are 11 of them, with 6 being partially dispensable.

Incomplete Proteins

Proteins that do not contain all essential amino acids in the right amounts; often found in plants.

Complete Proteins

Proteins that contain all essential amino acids in the right proportions; typically found in animal sources.

Complementary Proteins

Pairing of two incomplete proteins to provide the right amount of amino acids, functioning like complete proteins.

Protein Sources

Foods rich in protein, such as egg whites, milk, meat, and whey.

Protein Folding

The process by which proteins achieve their functional shape, determined by amino acid bonds and structures (primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary).

Insulin

A protein hormone that regulates blood sugar levels, made from amino acids, requiring injection for efficacy.

Branched-Chain Amino Acids

Isoleucine and leucine, used as an energy source during prolonged endurance exercise.

Conditionally Essential Amino Acids

Amino acids that become essential during physiological stress or when the body cannot produce them in sufficient amounts.

Phenylketonuria (PKU)

A genetic disorder that prevents proper metabolism of phenylalanine, leading to toxic accumulation.

Glutamine

An amino acid important for immune system function and energy provision to immune cells.

Protein Quality

Determined by the amount and types of amino acids present, as well as their bioavailability for absorption.

Enzymes

Proteins that act as catalysts to speed up chemical reactions.

Hormones

Proteins that regulate metabolic processes in the body.

Signaling Proteins

Proteins that bind to cells and influence their cellular processes, aiding in muscle protein synthesis.

Structural Proteins

Proteins that make up skin, hair, nails, and connective tissues.

Transport Proteins

Proteins that move materials within an organism, essential for growth and life.

Immune Proteins

Proteins that protect the body from infections.

Acid-Base Regulators

Proteins that help balance pH levels in bodily fluids, including plasma and blood.

Short-term Energy Source

Proteins can provide energy during minor stress but can be detrimental in the long run.

Protein Digestion

The process by which proteins are broken down into amino acids for absorption.

Protein Metabolism

The purpose of utilizing proteins for energy, growth, and repair in the body.

Protein Absorption

The process by which amino acids are taken up into the bloodstream from the digestive tract.

Amino Acid Pool

The reservoir of amino acids available for protein synthesis and other metabolic functions.

Liver Function

The organ responsible for disassembling and forming molecules, including proteins and dispensable amino acids.

Anabolic

Metabolic processes that build up molecules, including protein synthesis.

Catabolic

Metabolic processes that break down molecules for energy.