Final answer:
Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) serve important functions in cells by binding to multiple partners and undergoing conformational changes. They play key roles in signaling pathways, cell cycle regulation, and protein-protein interactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) serve important functions in cells. Unlike structured proteins, IDPs do not adopt a single defined conformation, but instead exist as dynamic ensembles of conformations. They play key roles in many essential cellular processes, including signaling pathways, cell cycle regulation, and protein-protein interactions.
One important function of IDPs is their ability to bind to multiple partners. Because they lack a fixed structure, IDPs can interact with a wide range of binding partners, allowing for versatility in protein-protein interactions and signaling cascades. For example, the IDP p53 regulates gene expression by binding to various transcription factors.
Another important function of IDPs is their ability to undergo conformational changes upon binding to their target. This allows them to switch between different functional states and participate in complex cellular processes. An example of this is the IDP tau, which undergoes conformational changes in Alzheimer's disease, leading to the formation of neurofibrillary tangles.