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Overview of Protein Structures and Bonds

Jun 2, 2025

L4 Exam Questions - Flashcards Overview

Key Concepts

Protein Structure

  • Quaternary Structure: Term used to describe a protein structure made of two or more polypeptide chains.

Amino Acids and Peptides

  • Dipeptide: Consists of two amino acids joined by a peptide bond.
    • Similarities:
      • Can be broken down through a hydrolysis reaction.
      • Both are alpha glucose molecules.
    • Differences:
      • Chains may be branched or unbranched.
  • Peptide Bond Formation:
    • Formed through a condensation reaction between amine and carboxyl groups.

Polypeptide Secondary Structure

  • Produced by hydrogen bonds between amino acids.
    • Occurs between NH group of one amino acid and C=O group of another.
    • Can form pleated sheets or a helix.

Differences in Protein Structure

  • Two proteins with the same number and type of amino acids can have different tertiary structures due to:
    • Different amino acid sequences (primary structure).
    • Ionic, hydrogen, and disulfide bonds forming in different locations.

Chemical Elements in Biochemistry

  • Nitrogen: Chemical element found in all amino acids that is not present in triglycerides.

Chemical Processes

  • Condensation Reaction: Process involved in forming linkages like peptide bonds.

Bond Formation

  • Dipeptide and Water: Formed when two amino acids join.
  • Ester Bond: Type of bond formed between two amino acid molecules.

Changes in Protein Structure

  • Change in primary structure of a globular protein affects its three-dimensional structure due to:
    • Changes in amino acid sequence.
    • Alterations in tertiary structure leading to bonds in different locations.

Keratin Structure

  • Quaternary Structure Evidence: More than one polypeptide chain within the molecule.
  • Sulphur-Containing Amino Acids:
    • Form chemical bonds between sulphur-containing groups (R-groups).
    • Disulphide bonds provide strength by binding chains to each other.
  • Differences in Keratin Properties:
    • Due to variations in amino acid numbers and sequences, resulting in different bond placements and shapes.

Additional Resources


These notes capture the essence of the L4 exam questions flashcards and provide a foundation for understanding protein structures, peptide bonds, and variations in protein properties.