Proteins are essential biological macromolecules with diverse functions. Here are some examples categorized by their function:
Examples of Proteins by Function
| Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Digestive Enzymes | Amylase, lipase, pepsin, trypsin |
| Transport | Hemoglobin, albumin |
| Structural | Actin, tubulin, keratin |
| Hormones | Insulin, thyroxine |
Digestive Enzymes
- Amylase: Breaks down starch into sugars.
- Lipase: Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
- Pepsin: Breaks down proteins into smaller peptides in the stomach.
- Trypsin: Breaks down proteins in the small intestine.
Transport Proteins
- Hemoglobin: Transports oxygen in red blood cells.
- Albumin: Transports various molecules in the blood, including hormones, fatty acids, and drugs.
Structural Proteins
- Actin: Forms microfilaments and is involved in muscle contraction and cell motility.
- Tubulin: Forms microtubules, which are essential for cell structure, cell division, and intracellular transport.
- Keratin: Provides structural support in hair, skin, and nails.
Hormones
- Insulin: Regulates blood sugar levels by promoting glucose uptake by cells.
- Thyroxine: Regulates metabolism and growth.
These examples illustrate the variety of roles that proteins play in biological systems, from catalyzing reactions to providing structural support and regulating physiological processes.
