Protein synthesis

1. Protein structure

Figure 4: Globular protein

Figure 5: Fibrous protein

1.2 Proteins

1.2.2 Protein structure

Foldings

Proteins spontaneously fold, always in the same manner.

The optimal spatial arrangement is determined by steric hindrance and by positive and negative charges on the amino acids.

Two main categories of proteins are formed:

• Globular proteins: The protein folds into a compact structure.

• Fibrous proteins: The protein forms a long, narrow, and often very rigid structure.