The primary structure is the sequence of aminoacids in a polypeptide joined by peptide bonds.
Describe the secondary structure of a protein.
The sequence of amino acids causes parts of a protein molecule to coil into an α helix or fold into β pleated sheets.
Hydrogen bonds form between the carboxyl groups of one amino acid and the amine group of another and hold the secondary structure in place.
Describe the tertiary structure of a protein.
The secondary structure is folded to form a precise 3D shape. This unique3Dshape is held in place by hydrogen bonds, ionic bonds and sometimes disulfide bonds.
Describe the quaternary structure of a protein.
A protein that is made up of more than one polypeptide chain has a quaternary structure.
It is still folded into a 3D shape and held by hydrogen, ionic and disulphide bonds.
