Table of Contents
Fibrous and Globular Proteins : Common Proteins and Their Uses
Fibrous proteins are insoluble in water and have a high tensile strength. They are found in the structural elements of the body, such as hair, nails, and the connective tissues. The most common fibrous protein is collagen, which is found in skin, tendons, and ligaments.
Globular proteins are soluble in water and have a low tensile strength. They are found in the body’s fluids and play a role in the immune system. The most common globular protein is albumin, which is found in blood and lymph.
Common proteins and their uses:
–Collagen: strengthens connective tissue, skin, and hair; helps wounds heal
-Albumin: helps maintain blood pressure and fluid balance; transports nutrients and oxygen throughout the body
-IgG: helps fight infection; defends the body against foreign substances
Types of Proteins
- There are many different types of proteins, each with their own unique functions. Some of the most common types of proteins include enzymes, antibodies, and structural proteins.
- Enzymes are proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the body. They are essential for the digestion of food and the production of energy.
- Antibodies are proteins that are produced by the immune system in response to a foreign invader. They attach to the invader and destroy it.
- Structural proteins are proteins that form the structural framework of the body. They are responsible for the strength and resilience of tissues such as muscles, bones, and cartilage.
Globular Proteins
- A globular protein is a protein that is spherical in shape. Globular proteins are the most common type of protein, and they are found in all forms of life.
- Globular proteins are made up of a chain of amino acids. The chain is folded into a sphere, and the amino acids are held together by hydrogen bonds.
- Globular proteins have a variety of functions in the body. They are responsible for the structure and function of cells, they help to transport molecules around the body, and they play a role in the immune system.
Fibrous Proteins
Fibrous proteins are proteins that form long, thin strands. They are often found in structural elements of the body, such as tendons, ligaments, and hair. Fibrous proteins are also found in some foods, such as meat and fish.
What is the Difference between Fibrous Protein and Globular Protein?
Fibrous proteins are proteins that are composed of long, unbranched chains of amino acids. The chains are often coiled and folded to form a three-dimensional shape. Fibrous proteins include collagen, keratin, and elastin.
Globular proteins are proteins that are composed of smaller, globular chains of amino acids. The chains are often folded and twisted to form a three-dimensional shape. Globular proteins include enzymes and antibodies.