What are the differences between globular and fibrous proteins?


Just Globular:spherical structure outward facing hydrophilic R-groups, inward facing hydrophobic R-groups, results in being soluble highly specific tertiary structures so can act as enzymes (catalase, alcohol dehydrogenase, RuBisCO), signalling molecules binding to receptors (insulin) and the binding regions of antibodies.primary structure is non-repetitive (mostly)Often can have a quaternary structure of multiple subunits (haemoglobin)Mineral ion cofactors/coenzymes (haemoglobin/chymotrypsin)Just Fibrous: elongated insoluble repeating primary structure (glycine in collagen)Shared: Both have secondary structures, but structures formed differ (alpha helix/beta-pleated sheet vs triple helix)Both have structures determined by H-bonds, hydrophilic/hydrophobic interactions, ionic bonds and disulphide bridges.
Best explained in bullet point form.

Answered by Biology tutor

4728 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe the process of DNA replication


What's the difference between facilitated diffusion and active transport?


Explain the mechanism of expiration in the human body.


a) Name a hormone secreted by the ovaries (1 mark). b) A female takes a contraceptive pill that increases the body's levels of progesterone. Explain what effects this has on the female's body and what effects that it has on her other hormones (3 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning