Question

Describe the tertiary structure of proteins.

Answer 1

Proteins:

1. A protein is a naturally occurring, extremely complex substance consisting of amino acid residues linked by peptide bonds.
2. Proteins are present in all living organisms and include many essential biological compounds such as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies.

Tertiary structure of proteins:

1. The polypeptide chain may experience additional folding to produce the tertiary structure.
2. To some extent, the tertiary structure is determined by the amino acid sequence of the primary structure.
3. For example, in globular proteins, polypeptide chains are held together in a certain way to form a compact structure.
4. Specific biological activities such as enzyme activity are associated with the tertiary structure.
5. The tertiary structure is maintained by many different types of bonds such as disulphide bonds, ionic or hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic bonds, etc.