Proteins
Introduction
Proteins are the most abundant biological macromolecules, occurring in all cells and all parts of cells. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. All proteins, whether from the most ancient lines of bacteria or from the most complex forms of life, are constructed from the same set of 20 amino acids. What is most remarkable is that cells can produce proteins with strikingly different properties and activities by joining the same 20 amino acids in many different combinations and sequences. From these building blocks different organisms can make such widely diverse products as enzymes, hormones, antibodies, transporters, muscle fibers, the lens protein of the eye, feathers, spider webs, rhinoceros horn, milk proteins, antibiotics, and mushroom poisons and other substances having distinct biological activities. While proteins contain only L-a-amino acids, microorganisms elaborate peptides that contain both D- and L-a-amino acids.
Objectives
describe amino acids
explain the structure of amino acids
classify amino acids
describe proteins
describe the structure of protein
explain the function of proteins
explain the digestion and absorption of proteins
describe products of amino acids
explain transamination, Deamination, Urea Cycle
