Function of all Living Cells

Abstract

Proteins are vital biomolecules crucial to numerous physiological processes and cellular functions. Comprised of amino acids, proteins form high molecular weight polymers exhibiting diverse shapes, solubility, and biological properties. They are classified based on function (catalytic, structural, regulatory), composition (simple, conjugated, derived), solubility (albumins, globulins), shape (globular, fibrous), and nutritional value (rich, incomplete, poor). The chapter delves into protein structure, detailing primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures, emphasizing peptide bonds and amino acid sequences. Protein synthesis mechanisms, including initiation, elongation, and termination, are outlined, alongside post-translational modifications. Various methods for protein analysis are discussed, from traditional techniques like electrophoresis and western blotting to modern approaches like mass spectrometry and light scattering. The importance of proteins in maintaining cellular integrity, facilitating biochemical reactions, and ensuring proper metabolic functions is underscored. This comprehensive overview highlights the indispensable role of proteins in sustaining life and their intricate relationship between structure and function, offering insights into their biochemical versatility and the critical roles they play in biological systems.