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Questions and Answers
What is the basic structure of a protein?
What is the basic structure of a protein?
What is one of the main functions of protein in the body?
What is one of the main functions of protein in the body?
What is the term for the nutrients that the body needs in small quantities?
What is the term for the nutrients that the body needs in small quantities?
How many different amino acids are there that join together to make all types of protein?
How many different amino acids are there that join together to make all types of protein?
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What is the term for the amino acids that cannot be made by our bodies?
What is the term for the amino acids that cannot be made by our bodies?
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What is the term for the test that measures the total amount of protein in blood plasma or serum?
What is the term for the test that measures the total amount of protein in blood plasma or serum?
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What are the two main components of protein in the plasma?
What are the two main components of protein in the plasma?
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What are the fractions of globulin that can be quantitated using protein electrophoresis?
What are the fractions of globulin that can be quantitated using protein electrophoresis?
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Study Notes
Proteins
- Proteins are complex organic compounds composed of a chain of amino acids.
- They provide energy for the body and are an important component of every cell.
- Hair and nails are mostly made of protein.
- Proteins are used to build and repair tissues, make enzymes, hormones, and other body chemicals.
- They are an important building block of bones, muscles, cartilage, skin, and blood.
Macronutrients and Micronutrients
- Protein is a macronutrient, meaning the body needs relatively large amounts of it.
- Unlike fat and carbohydrates, the body does not store protein and therefore has no reservoir to draw on when it needs a new supply.
- Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients, needed in only small quantities.
Amino Acids and Protein Types
- Proteins are made up of 20 different amino acids that join together.
- Some amino acids cannot be made by the body and are known as essential amino acids.
- It is essential that the diet provides these essential amino acids.
Measuring Total Protein
- Serum total protein is a biochemical test for measuring the total amount of protein in blood plasma or serum.
- Protein in the plasma is made up of albumin and globulin.
- Globulin is made up of α1, α2, β, and γ globulins.
- The total protein test is a faster and cheaper test that estimates the total of all fractions together.
- Other methods for measuring total protein include the Kjeldahl method, dye-binding, and refractometers.
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Description
Learn about the structure and functions of proteins, their importance in the body, and how they are used to build and repair tissues.