key term - Tertiary structure

Definition

The tertiary structure of a protein refers to the overall three-dimensional shape formed by the folding and coiling of its peptide chain, stabilized by various interactions among its amino acids. This structure is crucial for the protein's function and specificity.

Related terms

Amino Acids:

The building blocks of proteins, consisting of a central carbon atom bonded to an amino group, carboxyl group, hydrogen atom, and variable R group.

Peptide Bond:

A chemical bond formed between two amino acid molecules when the carboxyl group of one molecule reacts with the amino group of another molecule, releasing a molecule of water (H2O).

Secondary Structure:

The level of protein structure characterized by local folding patterns within the polypeptide chain, primarily alpha-helices and beta-sheets, due to hydrogen bonding