A coiled coil is a structural motif in proteins where 2-7 alpha-helices are coiled together like the strands of a rope, often driven by hydrophobic interactions between these helices. This motif plays critical roles in protein function and stability, and is prevalent in many structural and mechanical proteins, such as keratin and myosin.

Coiled Coil

Structural Motif

Alpha-helices

Hydrophobic interactions are non-covalent forces that occur when non-polar molecules aggregate to minimize their exposure to water, playing a crucial role in the folding of proteins and the formation of cell membranes. These interactions are driven by the increase in entropy of water molecules when non-polar surfaces are buried away from the aqueous environment.

Hydrophobic Interactions

Proteins are essential biomolecules that perform a wide array of functions in biological systems, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes. Their function is determined by their three-dimensional structure, which is encoded by the sequence of amino acids and influenced by the cellular environment.

Protein Function

Protein stability refers to the ability of a protein to maintain its structural integrity and functional conformation under various environmental conditions. It is crucial for protein function and is influenced by factors such as temperature, pH, ionic strength, and the presence of stabilizing or destabilizing agents.

Protein Stability

Structural proteins are essential components that provide support and shape to cells and tissues, playing a critical role in maintaining the integrity and function of biological structures. They include a diverse range of proteins such as collagen, keratin, and elastin, each specialized for specific structural roles in the body.

Structural Proteins

Mechanical proteins

Keratin is a fibrous structural protein that forms the key structural material in the outer layer of human skin and is also a vital component of hair and nails. It provides protection and strength to cells, making it essential for maintaining the integrity and resilience of various tissues in the body.

Keratin

Myosin is a motor protein that interacts with actin filaments to generate force and movement in muscle contraction and various cellular processes. It plays a crucial role in converting chemical energy from ATP into mechanical energy, enabling functions like cell motility and intracellular transport.

Concepts

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