Structure and Function of Proteins
Protein Structure Proteins contain carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen (CHON). They often contain sulphur. Proteins are built up from amino acids (20 different types). These are joined together by strong chemical bonds called peptide bonds. Proteins usually consist of hundreds of amino acids linked together to form a polypeptide chain.
Weak chemical bonds form between certain amino acids called hydrogen bonds causing the polypeptide chain to fold in a particular way. The order of the amino acids is determined genetically and determines the structure and function of the protein. See Fig 9.1, page 60 Torrance
Fibrous Globular
Contractile (e.g. myosin)
Structural (e.g. collagen)
Enzyme
Transport (haemoglobin)
Protective (antibodies)
Hormones