What is the Biological Significance of Proteins?
Answer: Proteins facilitate enzyme reactions, hormone production, immune responses, structural support, and transport within organisms.
Proteins are versatile and vital molecules that play essential roles in the biological functions of organisms.
- Catalysis: Proteins act as enzymes to accelerate chemical reactions, making life-sustaining biochemical processes efficient and specific.
- Structural Support: They provide structural support to cells and organisms. Collagen in connective tissues and keratin in hair and nails are some examples.
- Transport: Specific proteins, like hemoglobin, transport oxygen in the blood, while others facilitate the movement of molecules across cell membranes.
- Defence: Antibodies, a type of protein, are crucial in the immune system’s defense against pathogens.
- Regulation: Proteins regulate cellular processes through signaling molecules and receptors, ensuring proper cell function and intercellular communication.
- Movement: Motor proteins, such as myosin in muscles, are responsible for movement at the cellular and organismal levels.
- Storage: Certain proteins store ions and molecules for future use, like ferritin storing iron in the liver.
Also, check out our easy-to-read article on Proteins, if you want to learn more.