POLYPEPTIDES Meaning and
Definition
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Polypeptides are organic compounds that consist of a chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. They are essentially the building blocks of proteins. The chain length of polypeptides can vary, ranging from just a few amino acids to several thousand.
Polypeptides are formed through a process called protein synthesis, or translation, which occurs in the ribosomes of cells. During this process, the genetic information encoded in DNA is transcribed into messenger RNA (mRNA), which is then translated into a specific sequence of amino acids in the polypeptide chain. This sequence determines the structure and function of the protein that the polypeptide ultimately forms.
Polypeptides play a crucial role in various biological processes within living organisms. They serve as structural components, forming the intricate three-dimensional structures of proteins. Additionally, polypeptides are involved in enzymatic reactions, signal transmission, regulation of gene expression, immune system response, and many other physiological functions.
The function of a polypeptide depends on its specific amino acid sequence and the arrangement of its secondary and tertiary structures. These structures are influenced by various factors such as hydrogen bonding, disulfide bridges, and interactions with other molecules like water or metal ions.
In summary, polypeptides are chains of amino acids that have a significant role in the structure, function, and regulation of proteins within living organisms. They are vital for various biological processes and serve as the foundation for the complexity and diversity of life.
Common Misspellings for POLYPEPTIDES
Etymology of POLYPEPTIDES
The word "polypeptides" has its roots in Greek. It is derived from two Greek words: "poly", meaning many or multiple, and "peptos", meaning digested or broken down. Peptides are small chains of amino acids, and when multiple amino acids are joined together in a chain, they form polypeptides. So, the term "polypeptides" essentially refers to multiple peptides joined together.
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