Zafra, Ray Allen N.
3B2 Chem600Lec
Protein Functions
1. Antibodies
Antibodies bind to invasive foreign particles such as bacteria and viruses, and help
defend the body from the adverse effects of these aforementioned particles. An
example of protein antibody is Immunoglobulin G.
1. Enzymes
Proteins such as Phenylalanine hydroxylase act as enzymes that carry out almost, if
not all of the thousand chemical reactions in cells. They also assist with the
formation of new molecules by reading the genetic information stored in DNA.
2. Structural Component
These proteins provide structure and support for cells. On a larger scale, they also
allow the body to move, an example is Actin.
3. Transport and Storage.
The protein Ferritin and others like it bind and carry atoms and small molecules
within cells and throughout the body.
4. Binders.
Haptoglobin, an example of protein with this kind of function, bind free plasma
hemoglobin that permits degradative enzymes to have access to the mentioned
hemoglobin while simultaneously preventing iron loss through the kidneys and
protecting them from damage by hemoglobin. Haptoglobin is also called suicide
protein.
5. Biomarker
The protein Cystatin C is known in predicting new-onset or deteriorating
cardiovascular disease.
6. Metabolism related function.
Ceruloplasmin plays a structural role in metabolism, specifically in iron
metabolism.
7. Regulation
An example is Albumin, which aids in blood pH regulation.