Question

Name the 6 roles of proteins in the body.

Answer 1

Proteins play numerous roles such as providing structure and protection, catalyzing reactions as enzymes, transporting substances, storing nutrients, defending against pathogens, and regulating bodily functions through hormones like insulin.

Step-by-step explanation:

Roles of Proteins in the Body

Proteins fulfill several critical roles within the human body, which include:

Structural support and protection: Proteins such as collagen and keratin are crucial in maintaining the structure and protection of tissues.

Enzymatic activity: Proteins function as enzymes like trypsin that catalyze chemical reactions vital for life processes.

Transportation of molecules: Proteins such as hemoglobin and serum albumin are responsible for the transport of various substances throughout the body.

Nutrient storage: Proteins, including casein in milk and ovalbumin in eggs, store and provide essential nutrients.

Immune defense: Immunoglobulins and other proteins play a key role in defending against pathogens.

Regulation of physiological activities: Protein-based hormones like insulin and growth hormone help regulate various body functions.

In addition to these functions, proteins are involved in creating body tissues, facilitating communication between cells, and serving as a potential source of energy.

Answer 2

Answer: 1. Repair and Maintenance

Protein is termed the building block of the body. It is called this because protein is vital in the maintenance of body tissue, including development and repair. Hair, skin, eyes, muscles and organs are all made from protein.

2. Energy

Protein is a major source of energy. If you consume more protein than you need for body tissue maintenance and other necessary functions, your body will use it for energy. If it is not needed due to sufficient intake of other energy sources such as carbohydrates, the protein will be used to create fat and becomes part of fat cells.

3. Hormones

Protein is involved in the creation of some hormones. These substances help control body functions that involve the interaction of several organs. Insulin, a small protein, is an example of a hormone that regulates blood sugar. It involves the interaction of organs such as the pancreas and the liver. Secretin, is another example of a protein hormone. This substance assists in the digestive process by stimulating the pancreas and the intestine to create necessary digestive juices.

4. Enzymes

Enzymes are proteins that increase the rate of chemical reactions in the body. In fact, most of the necessary chemical reactions in the body would not efficiently proceed without enzymes. For example, one type of enzyme functions as an aid in digesting large protein, carbohydrate and fat molecules into smaller molecules, while another assists in the creation of DNA.

5. Transportation and Storage of Molecules

Protein is a major element in transportation of certain molecules. For example, hemoglobin is a protein that transports oxygen throughout the body. Protein is also sometimes used to store certain molecules. Ferritin is an example of a protein that combines with iron for storage in the liver.

6. Antibodies

Protein forms antibodies that help prevent infection, illness and disease. These proteins identify and assist in destroying antigens such as bacteria and viruses. They often work in conjunction with the other immune system cells. For example, these antibodies identify and then surround antigens in order to keep them contained until they can be destroyed by white blood cells.

Step-by-step explanation: