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Introduction to Proteins

Proteins are large molecules encoded by lengths of DNA called genes. Proteins consist of smaller units called amino acids linked together in a chain by bonds called peptide bonds.

There is a disorderly yellow line beginning in the bottom left corner of the image. As it zig-zags towards the center, it has sections that appear like a helix and one section that appears like an arrow. Following the line from the bottom left corner to the top right corner, it gets wider. About halfway across the image, the yellow line becomes a series of overlapping yellow circles of increasing size. Each circle contains a letter written in black. These circles are labeled as "Amino acids."

Figure 1. A Protein Molecule

The different amino acids in a protein contain unique chemical groups called side chains. These side chains bond with one another, holding the proteins in particular three-dimensional shapes like spirals, folded sheets, and loops.

The 3D shape of proteins dictates how they function. Sometimes known as the “workhorses” of cells, proteins have vast and varied functions, including giving cells structure, speeding up chemical reactions, and protecting against disease-causing invaders.

Referred from:

Article
DNA As A Code