protein and peptides

What are the basic components of an amino acid structure?

Central α-carbon, amino group (-NH₂), carboxyl group (-COOH), hydrogen atom, and variable side chain (R-group).

Define peptide bond formation.

A condensation reaction where the amino group of one amino acid reacts with the carboxyl group of another, releasing water.

What defines the primary structure of a protein?

The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

What is an example of a protein that features specific disulfide bridges?

Insulin, which has two inter-chain and one intra-chain disulfide bridge.

Identify the two main types of secondary structures in proteins.

α-Helix and β-Sheets.

What stabilizes the α-helix structure in proteins?

Hydrogen bonds between carbonyl oxygen and amide hydrogen.

What is the overall 3D arrangement of a protein known as?

Tertiary structure.

What type of interactions stabilize a protein's tertiary structure?

Hydrophobic interactions, hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds, and disulfide bridges.

How is quaternary structure defined in proteins?

The association of multiple polypeptide chains into a functional protein.

What is the role of glutathione in biological systems?

It acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress.

What is the configuration of the structural protein collagen?

A triple helix providing tensile strength to connective tissues.

Explain the effects of denaturation on proteins.

Loss of secondary, tertiary, or quaternary structure, disrupting functional capabilities.

What experimental method provides atomic-level resolution of protein structure?

X-ray Crystallography.

What significance do peptides and proteins hold in drug development?

They are crucial for drug discovery, such as insulin for diabetes treatment and monoclonal antibodies for cancer therapy.