Structure of proteins

Question

How does the molecular structure of proteins relate to their function

Answer 1

A protein that is properly folded will be functional. Protein structure can be denatured with heat, which will make the protein nonfunctional. If the protein is a membrane protein, like an ion channel or a receptor, then its structure and conformational changes are important for signaling between cells, especially in the brain. Certain conformations can allow for ligands to bind to ion channels or receptors, while other conformations prevent binding by obscuring binding pockets. The binding of ligands, or drugs or medicines, to receptors or ion channels, can alter the activity of these proteins and the cells where the proteins reside..

Answer 2

Proteins functions are determined by their molecular structure. This is because proteins are made up of chains of amino acids that fold into specific shapes. These shapes determine the protein's function.