Alpha helix definitions
| Word backwards | ahpla xileh |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | noun |
| Syllabic division | al-pha he-lix |
| Plural | The plural of alpha helix is alpha helices. |
| Total letters | 10 |
| Vogais (3) | a,e,i |
| Consonants (4) | l,p,h,x |
Alpha helix is a common secondary structure found in proteins. It is a right-handed coiled structure resembling a spring, where the polypeptide chain is coiled tightly around a central axis. This structure was first described by Linus Pauling and Robert Corey in 1951.
Formation of Alpha Helix:
The formation of an alpha helix structure is stabilized by hydrogen bonding between amino acids in the protein chain. The backbone of the polypeptide chain forms the inner part of the helix, while the side chains extend outward. This structure allows for a compact and stable formation.
Key Features:
Alpha helices are characterized by 3.6 amino acids per turn, with a pitch of 5.4 angstroms. The R groups of the amino acids point outward from the helix axis, allowing for interactions with other molecules or proteins.
Function:
Alpha helices play a crucial role in protein structure and function. They are often involved in protein-protein interactions, DNA binding, and structural stability. The compact nature of the helix allows proteins to be tightly packed, making them essential for the overall structure of proteins.
Overall, the alpha helix is a fundamental structural motif in proteins, essential for their stability and function. Its unique coiled structure and stability make it one of the most common secondary structures found in proteins, contributing to the diverse functions they perform in living organisms.
Alpha helix Examples
- The alpha helix is a common secondary structure found in proteins.
- The amino acid sequence of a protein can determine the formation of an alpha helix.
- The stability of an alpha helix can be influenced by factors such as temperature and pH.
- The structure of DNA can sometimes resemble an alpha helix when tightly wound.
- Scientists use techniques like X-ray crystallography to study the detailed structure of an alpha helix.
- The hydrophobic interactions between amino acids can help stabilize an alpha helix.
- Alpha helices are often depicted as spirals in scientific illustrations of protein structures.
- Certain proteins have a higher propensity to form alpha helices due to their amino acid composition.
- The alpha helix is an important structural element in the function of many enzymes.
- Mutations in the amino acid sequence can disrupt the formation of an alpha helix in a protein.