Understanding Major Protein Classes in Biochemistry

These flashcards cover the key functional classes of proteins, their roles, and specific examples derived from the provided biochemistry notes.

Metabolic Enzymes

Proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions essential for energy conversion and macromolecule synthesis/degradation.

Structural Proteins

Proteins that maintain cell shape and form networks of scaffolding in the cytoplasm and extracellular matrix.

Transport Proteins

Proteins embedded in membranes that facilitate movement of molecules across lipid bilayers.

Cell Signaling Proteins

Proteins that initiate intracellular signals in response to extracellular ligand binding.

Genomic Caretaker Proteins

Proteins that ensure genomic stability by facilitating DNA replication, repair, recombination, and gene transcription.

Active Transporters

Transport proteins that require energy to move molecules against their concentration gradient.

Catalysts of Life

Enzymes that accelerate biochemical reactions without changing the equilibrium constant or ΔG.

Cytoskeletal Proteins

Structural proteins like actin and tubulin that support cell structure and motility.

G Protein-Coupled Receptors

Membrane receptors that transmit signals from outside the cell to the inside.

DNA Polymerases

Enzymes involved in DNA replication that synthesize new DNA strands.