Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Proteins

Anatomy & Physiology

2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components

Proteins

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2:53 minutes

Problem 19

Textbook Question

List seven major functions performed by proteins.

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Proteins serve as enzymes, which catalyze biochemical reactions in the body. Enzymes lower the activation energy required for reactions, making them occur faster and more efficiently.

Proteins function as structural components, providing support and shape to cells and tissues. Examples include collagen in connective tissues and keratin in hair and nails.

Proteins act as transport molecules, helping to move substances across cell membranes or through the bloodstream. For instance, hemoglobin transports oxygen in the blood.

Proteins play a role in cell signaling and communication. Hormones like insulin are protein-based and help regulate physiological processes by transmitting signals between cells.

Proteins are involved in immune defense, such as antibodies that recognize and neutralize pathogens like bacteria and viruses.

Proteins contribute to movement by forming contractile elements in muscle tissue, such as actin and myosin, which are essential for muscle contraction.

Proteins help regulate gene expression and cellular processes. For example, transcription factors are proteins that bind to DNA and control the transcription of specific genes.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Enzymatic Activity

Proteins act as enzymes, catalyzing biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required. This function is crucial for metabolic processes, allowing cells to efficiently convert substrates into products, thus facilitating various physiological functions.

Structural Support

Proteins provide structural support to cells and tissues. For example, collagen in connective tissues and keratin in hair and nails contribute to the integrity and strength of biological structures, playing a vital role in maintaining the shape and function of organisms.

Transport and Storage

Proteins are essential for the transport and storage of molecules. Hemoglobin, for instance, transports oxygen in the blood, while other proteins like ferritin store iron, ensuring that essential nutrients are available for cellular processes and overall homeostasis.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

After you eat a protein bar, which chemical reactions introduced in this chapter must occur for the amino acids in the protein bar to be converted into proteins in your body cells?

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Textbook Question

A deficiency in this element can be expected to reduce the hemoglobin content of blood:

a. Fe

b. I

c. F

d. Ca

e. K

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Textbook Question

Pediatricians become concerned about the potential for brain damage when an infant's temperature approaches 105°F. Which class of organic molecules is most likely to be damaged by high temperature? Explain why.

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Textbook Question

Which of the following is not a function of a protein?

(a) Support

(b) Transport

(d) Storage of genetic information

(e) Movement

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Textbook Question

If a polypeptide contains 10 peptide bonds, how many amino acids does it contain?

(a) 9

(b) 10