Polypeptide Chains
Definition
Polypeptide chains are long sequences of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. They fold into specific shapes to form proteins.
Analogy
Imagine polypeptide chains as trains. Each train car (amino acid) has a unique function but when linked together in a specific order, they create a whole train (protein) with its own unique function.
Related terms
Peptide Bond: This is the chemical bond formed between two molecules when the carboxyl group of one molecule reacts with the amino group of another molecule.
Primary Structure: This refers to the sequence of amino acids in a protein or polypeptide chain.
Tertiary Structure: This refers to the three-dimensional shape that a single polypeptide chain forms by folding on itself.
"Polypeptide Chains" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (1)
- In the secondary level of protein structure, linear polypeptide chains are twisted or folded into alpha helices or beta pleated sheets as a result of __.
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