Question

Describe at least three different functions of proteins and explain how the shape of a protein affects its function.

Answer 1

Here are three different functions of proteins:
-Enzymes (biological catalysts).
-Protein based hormones.
-Active transport proteins in the cell membrane.

The shape of a protein determines the specificity of a proteins role (e.g. the 3D nature of enzymes determine what type of reaction they can catalyse).

Answer 2

Proteins perform various functions in our body, some of the functions are as follows:

Enzymes: All enzymes are made up of proteins alone or in conjugation with some non-protein part called co-factors. Example: Trypsin, chymotrypsin, pepsin, etc.

Defense proteins: Immunoglobulins which are also called antibodies are proteins that fight infectious agents. They are produced by WBC's called lymphocytes.

Receptors: receptors are protein molecules which occur on the external surface of cell membranes. They bind to specific information molecules like hormones. Receptors are also located in the sense organs like tongue, nose for detecting taste and smell respectively.

Step-by-step explanation:

Protein folds at four levels: primary, secondary, tertiary and Quaternary.

Tertiary structure is absolutely necessary for many biological activity of proteins. This structure brings distant amino acid side chains closer forming the active site where the substrate binds.