Final answer:
The primary structure is the specific sequence of amino acids in a protein. Secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures refer to the folding and three-dimensional shape of the protein. The function of a protein is determined by its unique shape.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary structure of a protein refers to the specific sequence of amino acids in that protein. It is the first level of organization and determines the overall shape and function of the protein. For example, the primary structure of insulin is made up of 51 amino acids in a specific sequence.
The higher structures of a protein include the secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures. The secondary structure refers to the folding of sections of the protein chain, such as alpha helices and beta sheets. The tertiary structure describes the overall three-dimensional shape of the protein. And the quaternary structure refers to the arrangement of multiple protein subunits if the protein contains more than one subunit.
The function of a protein is determined by its unique shape, which is influenced by its primary, secondary, and tertiary structures. Proteins perform a variety of functions in the body, including enzyme catalysis, transport of molecules, cell signaling, and structural support.