Question

What is meant by tertiary structure of proteins?

Answer 1

• The complex yet distinct structure that the helical polypeptide molecule can take on is spherical, rod-like, or any form in between.
• The term "tertiary (3°) structure" refers to certain geometric configurations in protein molecules. The polypeptide molecules' coils and folds are structured to reveal the polar side chains while concealing the non-polar amino acid chains within.
• In order to create the active areas of enzymatic proteins, a protein's tertiary structure brings distant side chains of amino acids closer together.
• Weak bonds, which form between two parts of a polypeptide, such as hydrophilic-hydrophobic, ionic, disulphide, and hydrogen, are responsible for maintaining the tertiary structure.
• Protein function is halted by pH, temperature, and substances that can easily upset this structure.