Biological Macromolecules

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Biological Macromolecules

Proteins are large biomolecules that are involved in different processes that occur within the

body of an organism. They are made up of amino acids that are held together by peptide

bonds, and their function depends on their form and chemical content. Below is a list of

proteins that will show the relationship of different proteins to functions in the body:

Structural Proteins: Example: Collagen is found in large quantities in the human body

and is mainly involved in providing structural support as well as strength to several organs,

including bones, tendons, ligaments, and skin. It produces elongated structures that impart

these tissues with tensile properties and elasticity (Holwerda et al., 2022).

Transport Proteins: Example: Hemoglobin is an iron-containing protein which is

present in red blood cells and is involved in the process of oxygen and carbon dioxide

transportation between the lungs and the tissues. Due to its morphology, it is capable of the

reversible binding of oxygen molecules to facilitate the exchange of gases that support the

production of energy in cells.

Enzyme Proteins: Example: Amylase Amylase is an enzyme secreted into the saliva

and the pancreatic juice, which hydrolyzes starch and other glycogenoids into maltose and

glucose, respectively. This process is vital for the breakdown and incorporation of dietary

carbohydrates into the body's energy supply for its cells (Holwerda et al., 2022).

Hormonal Proteins: For example, insulin is a hormone secreted in the body by the

pancreas to help the body deal with glucose. Insulin helps glucose to be transported into cells

and metabolized or stored as glycogen when the body needs it later. It is also involved in

maintaining blood sugar levels, and an abnormality in insulin can result in conditions such as

diabetes.

Antibody Proteins: Example: Immunoglobulin G (IgG) Immunoglobulins are known

to be antibody proteins that are manufactured by the immune system in relation to foreign

antigens such as bacteria, viruses, or any other pathogens. These antigens can be bound and

eliminated by IgG antibodies, which help prevent infections and diseases.

Contractile Proteins: Example: Actin and myosin are contractile proteins present in

the muscle cells that contribute to muscle contraction and movement. While actin forms thin

filaments, myosin forms the thicker filaments. This process involves the sliding of these

filaments past each other through the use of the energy produced from the splitting of ATP.

These examples illustrate the diverse functions of proteins in the body, ranging from

structural support and transport to catalyzing chemical reactions, regulating biological

processes, defending against pathogens, and enabling movement. The specific amino acid

sequences and three-dimensional structures of proteins determine their unique functions and

roles within the body's intricate systems.

References

Holwerda, A. M., & van Loon, L. J. (2022). The impact of collagen protein ingestion on

musculoskeletal connective tissue remodeling: a narrative review.9Nutrition

reviews,980(6), 1497-1514.