What is the structure of a protein?

Structure of the protein is easier to understand if we start from the beginning and gradually build up our knowledge. Firstly, proteins are made of amino acids. Each amino acid is made of a central carbon atom , carboxyl group (-COOH), amine group (-NH2), hydrogen atom and R group ( this one varies depending on the amino acid). Amino acids join together via peptide bond (p - for protein, p - for peptide) to form a polypeptide chain.We can describe the structure of a protein using 4 stages:Primary structure - this is the order of amino acids in the polypeptide chain. We can imagine each amino acid is a bead placed on the string to visualise this concept.Secondary structure - this is the shape polypeptide chain folds into. Two most common shapes are alpha - helix and beta - pleated sheet. Useful to know that it is determined by the hydrogen bonds.Tertiary structure - this is the three dimensional structure of a protein. It is determined by the interactions between the R - groups of different amino acids e.g. disulfide bridges or hydophilic-hydrophobic interactions.Quaternary structure - this is the arrangement of polypeptide chains and applies only to the proteins which are made of more than 1 chain.

Answered by Daria S. Biology tutor

1926 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe and explain the main function of the proximal convoluted tubule in filtration/absorption.


How are enzymes inhibited?


A biologist has a small pond containing goldfish in her garden. On a sunny day, more pondweed is at the surface of the water but on a cloudy day, less pondweed is at the surface. Suggest an explanation for this observation


In genetics, what does co-dominance mean?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences