Identify 5 functions of proteins. Which would you argue is one of the more important functions? Why?

Answer 1

There are a variety of functions of proteins. Some that come to mind are:

1. Enzymatic Functions
2. Hormones
3. Cellular Structure
4. Cellular Transport (of nutrients across cell membranes)
5. Source of Nutrients (when body is in catabolic state particularly)

You could probably come up with others, so I'm not positive that my top 5 list is the one your teacher wants you to know, but hopefully this helps! It's up to you to say what you think is the most important. For me, enzymatic function is pretty critical, especially from a chemistry perspective. There are a myriad of reactions that happen in your body that would never occur if we tried to mix the same ingredients in the lab and it's all because of the enzymes your body produces! These reactions drive pretty much every cellular function and are especially critical for gene regulation and cellular division. If enzymes were to cease to exist, I think it is safe enough to say that all life would cease to exist (even bacteria use enzymes!).