An example of a functional protein is an enzyme, which acts as a biological catalyst to facilitate chemical reactions within cells.
Here are some other examples of functional proteins, as explained in the provided reference:
- Antibodies: These proteins are crucial for the immune system. They bind to pathogens, such as viruses and bacteria, and opsonize them, marking them for destruction by other immune cells.
- Enzymes: As mentioned, enzymes accelerate biochemical reactions that are essential for life processes. This includes digestion, metabolism, and DNA replication.
- Motor proteins: These proteins enable cell movement and transport of molecules within cells. They use energy, often from ATP, to generate force and cause motion.
- Receptor molecules: These proteins, located on cell surfaces or within cells, bind to signaling molecules (like hormones or neurotransmitters), initiating signal transduction pathways that regulate cellular behavior.
| Protein Type | Function | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Antibodies | Bind to pathogens and mark them for destruction | Immunoglobulin G (IgG) |
| Enzymes | Catalyze biochemical reactions | Amylase (digests carbohydrates) |
| Motor proteins | Facilitate cellular movement | Myosin (muscle contraction) |
| Receptor molecules | Allow for signal transduction | Insulin receptor |
Functional proteins are vital to life. Each type has a specific role, contributing to the overall functioning of a cell and an organism. These roles include supporting immune defenses, processing nutrients, enabling movement, and facilitating cell communication.
