Polypeptides
Polypeptides
Polypeptides (pronounced: pol-ee-PEP-tides) are a type of protein that are formed by the linkage of amino acids through peptide bonds. The term "polypeptide" is derived from the Greek words "poly" meaning many, and "peptos" meaning digested, referring to the fact that polypeptides are formed by the digestion of proteins.
Structure
Polypeptides are made up of a sequence of amino acids. Each amino acid in a polypeptide is connected to the next one through a peptide bond. This bond is formed between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of the next amino acid. The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide determines its structure and function.
Function
Polypeptides play a crucial role in the functioning of living organisms. They are involved in a wide range of biological processes, including cell signaling, immune response, and enzyme activity. Some polypeptides act as hormones, such as insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. Others, like collagen, provide structural support to tissues and organs.
Synthesis
The synthesis of polypeptides occurs in the ribosomes of cells during a process called protein synthesis. The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide is determined by the sequence of nucleotides in the mRNA molecule that is being translated.
Related Terms
- Peptide bond: The chemical bond that connects two amino acids in a polypeptide.
- Amino acid: The building blocks of polypeptides.
- Protein: A large molecule composed of one or more polypeptides.
- Ribosome: The cellular machinery where polypeptides are synthesized.
- mRNA: The molecule that carries the genetic information for the sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide.
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