Proteins: sequence, shape, and function
Proteins are polypeptides whose amino-acid sequences fold into specific three-dimensional structures. A protein’s function depends on both its sequence and its environment. Peptide bonds build the backbone; many weaker interactions organize the fold.
Learning goals
- describe primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structure;
- identify forces stabilizing proteins;
- connect shape to biological function;
- distinguish denaturation from hydrolysis;
- interpret a general peptide-bond test.