How does the molecular structure of proteins relate to their functions?
- According to molecular structure, proteins can be classified as follows in relation to function;
- Fibrous proteins from a long, tough, fibre insoluble in water. They therefore function as structural and supporting proteins and include; keratin, collagen, elastin, e.t.c
- Globular proteins have a globular shape but lack contractile properties. They contain polypeptide chains coiled about them. They therefore act as regulatory molecules and as food storage molecules in plants. Soluble globular proteins are amphipathic and therefore act as buffers of body fluid pH.
- Conjugated proteins consist of a simple protein united with some non-protein sub-stance. Examples include; glycoproteins which form mucin of saliva that helps in softening food; chromo proteins combined with a pigment such as hemoglobin, an oxygen carrying molecule; metallo-proteins which act as enzymes.
CATEGORIES Bio Questions and answers
TAGS Dr. Bbosa David
