Explain the primary, secondary and tertiary structure of proteins

The primary structure of a protein is made up of a sequence of amino acids which is coded for by the organisms DNA triplets which are transcribed in the process of protein synthesis, the secondary structure of the enzyme is then formed by hydrogen bonding between molecules from the amino acids - the most common two forms are alpha helices or beta pleated sheets. The tertiary structure involves more bending and folding with ionic bonds between charged molecules and disulphide bridges between the amino acids cysteine - this forms a specific tertiary structure also know as an active sight - in enzyme controlled reactions the shape of the tertiary structure is complementary to that of the substrate allowing the reaction to take place

Answered by Biology tutor

2811 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Describe and explain how an action potential is generated (6 marks)


how does the chemical structure of amino acids lead to variable physical structures of proteins


What is an enzyme?


Give two features of DNA and explain how each one is important in the semi-conservative replication of DNA.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning