Notes on Protein Molecules

Introduction to Protein Molecules

• Protein molecules are essential chemicals in the body.
• Perform various functions:
  • Enable movement (walking, talking)
  • Control brain and heart activity
  • Support the immune system
  • Aid in digestion
• Billions of proteins in the body; metaphor: a protein the size of a penny vs. pennies filling the Pacific Ocean.

Structure of Protein Molecules

• Size and Complexity:
  • Proteins are very small yet large and complex compared to other molecules.
• Composition:
  • Made of amino acids (e.g., valine, isoleucine, phenylalanine).
  • Schematic representation reveals long, stringy structure resembling beads on a necklace.

Key Developments in Protein Science

1. Protein Folding Problem

• One of the grand challenges in biochemistry for 50 years.
• Protein Folding Code: Sequence of amino acids determines the folded shape and function of proteins.
• Recent advancements allow computation of protein structures using computers.
• Metaphor: Amino acid sequence as beads of different colors (20 different amino acids).

2. Understanding Protein Function

• Proteins can be viewed as machines: 20,000+ types in the body.
• Mechanisms of Action:
  • Proteins operate using shape and shape changes.
  • Different types of proteins: motors, valves, pumps, etc.

Examples of Protein Machines

• Protein Motors:
  • Function by pumping or creating motion.
  • Examples include rotary motors that pump acids and propel bacterial flagella.
• Sliding Motors:
  • Example: muscle proteins that cause movement.
• Valves and Pumps:
  • Controls the flow of substances (e.g., water, ions).
  • Dysfunction can lead to diseases (e.g., cystic fibrosis).

Comparison of Protein Machines to Conventional Machines

• Proteins differ fundamentally from traditional machines (electric motors, gasoline engines):
  • Proteins work on a different principle; they utilize molecular interactions rather than electricity or explosions.
  • Potential for new technologies by mimicking protein principles in larger machines.

Future Implications

• Scaling up protein technologies could address global challenges (health, energy, resources).
• Examples of Applications:
  • Water supply management
  • Energy conversion (solar)
  • Transportation advancements.
• Historical Context:
  • Similar to the evolution of transportation (e.g., riding animals).
• Opportunity to harness protein principles for larger-scale applications that could greatly improve quality of life.

Conclusion

• There is a promising future in protein technology with potential applications in various fields.
• Understanding proteins at a microscopic scale could lead to revolutionary advancements in the macroscopic world.