Biology unit 1, topic 2 - proteins - Flashcards in A Level and IB Biology

Created by: jostevenson28
Created on: 15-05-15 15:00

Describe the structure of an amino acid

an amino group, an R group (variable group - 20 different types), carboxyl group, a hydrogen and a central carbon

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How do you form a protein?

a condensation reaction between the amino group of 1 amino acid and the carboxly group of another, bonding them together with peptide bonds

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What is meant by primary structure?

the sequence of amino acids (held together with peptide bonds)

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What is meant by the secondary structure?

the folding and shaping of the line of amino acids, (formation of hydrogen bonds, B pleated sheets and A-helix's)

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What is meant by the tertiary structure?

the 3D shape of the chain of amino acids (using ionic bonds, disulphide bridges, hydrophilic and hydrophobic tendencies)

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What is meant by the quaternary structure?

when other proteins and molecules join together (3D arrangement of more than one tertiary polypeptide)

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Describe the properties of a fibrous protein

has little/no tertiary structure - long, parallel polypeptide chains with occasion cross-linkages to form fibers (tough - tightly coiled with strong bonds), insoluble in water, found in connective tissue, tendons, bones and muscles

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Describe the properties of a globular protein

have complex tertiary structures, and often quaternary structures, folded into spherical shapes, soluble (easily transported in fluids), form enzymes and hormones

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