Biological Significance of Proteins

Overview

• Instructor: Mr. Lim
• Topic: Biological significance of proteins and the Protein Data Bank

Functions of Proteins

• Enzymes: Catalyze chemical reactions at biological temperatures
• Building Blocks: Construct DNA and proteins
• Ion Flow Control: Regulate ion movement
• Muscle Movement: Facilitate muscle contractions

Importance of Protein Shape

• Proteins rely on their shape to function
• Shape enables binding to specific molecules
• Example: Enzyme binding to a carbon dioxide molecule to break its bonds
• Complementary shapes: Precise fit around the target molecule

Levels of Protein Structure

1. Primary: Amino acid sequence
2. Secondary: Alpha helices and beta sheets
3. Tertiary: 3D structure of a single polypeptide chain
4. Quaternary: Multi-polypeptide complexes

• Small changes in any level can alter protein shape and functionality
• Non-complementary shapes render proteins ineffective

Protein Data Bank (PDB)

• Global Repository: Contains structural data of proteins (primary, secondary, tertiary structures)
• Includes: Proteins from humans, animals, bacteria, viruses
• Purpose: Study protein structures to manipulate their functions

Drug Design and Protein Interaction

• Design drugs to alter protein shapes, preventing unwanted interactions
• Example: Drug fits into a virus’s attachment site to inhibit binding
• Analyze similarity between pathogenic proteins to develop cross-effective drugs
• Modification: Slight alterations to drugs may enhance compatibility

Applications in Pandemics and Research

• Understanding protein shapes aids in vaccine and drug development
• Cross-application: Drugs effective for one virus can be tested on similar viruses
• Research Collaboration: PDB facilitates global scientific communication to combat diseases

Conclusion

• Protein shapes are crucial for biological functions
• PDB is a valuable resource for understanding and manipulating protein functions
• Drug design leverages structural data to prevent and treat diseases