Primary Structure
Definition
The primary structure of a protein refers to the sequence of amino acids that make up the protein. It's like the unique order of letters in a sentence.
Analogy
Think of it as a string of beads, where each bead represents an amino acid. The color and type of each bead (amino acid) are specific and create a unique pattern (protein).
Related terms
Amino Acids: These are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. They're like individual letters that make up words (proteins).
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, releasing water (H2O). It's like glue holding our beads together on our string.
Polypeptide: A polypeptide is a single linear chain of many amino acids, held together by peptide bonds. It's like a sentence made from words (amino acids).
"Primary Structure" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (2)
- What determines the primary structure of a protein?
- Amino acids string together to form the primary structure of proteins. What type of bond holds amino acids together?
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