Alpha helix
Alpha helix
Alpha helix (pronunciation: al-fuh hee-liks) is a common type of secondary structure in proteins. The alpha helix is a right-handed coiled or spiral conformation, in which every backbone N-H group donates a hydrogen bond to the backbone C=O group of the amino acid located three or four residues earlier along the protein sequence.
Etymology
The term "alpha helix" is derived from the Greek letter "alpha" and the word "helix". The Greek letter "alpha" is used because it was the first type of helix discovered, while "helix" comes from the Greek word "helix", meaning "twisted, spiral".
Structure
The amino acids in an alpha helix are arranged in a right-handed helical structure. Each amino acid corresponds to a 100 degree turn in the helix, and the amino acids are spaced at 1.5 angstroms along the helix axis. Each amino acid in the helix is held in place by a hydrogen bond that forms between the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another.
Function
Alpha helices are a key component of many proteins, providing structural stability and functionality. They are often found in fibrous proteins such as keratin, and in globular proteins like hemoglobin. The alpha helix structure allows for efficient packing of the protein core, which is crucial for protein stability.
Related Terms
- Beta sheet: Another common form of protein secondary structure.
- Protein structure: The arrangement of atoms within the protein molecule.
- Amino acid: The building blocks of proteins.
- Hydrogen bond: A type of chemical bond that is often crucial for the structure of proteins.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Alpha helix
- Wikipedia's article - Alpha helix
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