Explain the four levels of protein structure, indicating the significance of each level
There are four levels to a protein's structure:Firstly, the primary structure which is the sequence of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. This level determines the type/function of the protein by influencing the secondary and tertiary structures.The secondary structure is composed of alpha-helices and beta-pleated sheets which are held together by hydrogen bonds.The tertiary structure determines the overall shape of the polypeptide. For example, on an enzyme the active site is specifically shaped by this tertiary structure.Finally, the quaternary structure links the polypeptides together using the same bonds as in the tertiary structure. A prosthetic group can also be attached to aid the function of the polypeptide. An example of a protein with a quaternary structure is haemoglobin - with 4 polypeptide chains.
Related Biology A Level answers
All answers ▸Explain how the human eye has both high sensitivity and high acuity.
Give three differences between the structures of RNA and DNA
Aspartic Acid and Proline are both part of the 20 basic amino acids. Describe their similarities and differences in terms of their properties.
Explain what causes the Bohr shift to occur, and give one situation in which this is useful.