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Primary Structure of Protein definitions

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  • Primary Structure
    Defines the specific sequence and composition of amino acid residues in a polypeptide, setting the foundation for higher protein structures.
  • Amino Acid
    Organic molecule with both an amino group and a carboxyl group; serves as the building block for polypeptides and proteins.
  • Amino Acid Residue
    Component of a polypeptide chain formed when an amino acid is covalently linked via peptide bonds, lacking free amino and carboxyl groups.
  • Peptide Bond
    Covalent linkage formed between the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another during polypeptide formation.
  • Polypeptide Chain
    Linear sequence of amino acid residues connected by peptide bonds, forming the backbone of protein structure.
  • Composition
    Refers to the number and types of amino acids present in a protein, without specifying their order.
  • Sequence
    Exact order of amino acid residues in a polypeptide, always read from the N-terminal to the C-terminal end.
  • N-terminal End
    Starting point of a polypeptide chain, characterized by a free amino group, often positively charged at physiological pH.
  • C-terminal End
    Ending point of a polypeptide chain, marked by a free carboxyl group, typically negatively charged at physiological pH.
  • Dehydration Synthesis
    Chemical reaction responsible for peptide bond formation, resulting in the loss of water and linking amino acids.
  • Secondary Structure
    Level of protein organization influenced by primary structure, includes alpha helices and beta sheets.
  • Tertiary Structure
    Three-dimensional folding of a protein determined by its primary structure, crucial for biological function.
  • Quaternary Structure
    Arrangement of multiple polypeptide chains into a single functional protein, not present in all proteins.
  • Protein Function
    Biological activity determined by the overall shape, which is ultimately dictated by the primary structure.