How large is a protein?

1 Answer
Dec 1, 2017

A protein molecule varies in size. from 40 to 34,000. It is true.

Explanation:

Each protein molecule is having a unique role to play. It may be structural, enzyme or acts as a pore. The function of a protein depends on its function. Body uses the amino acids judiciously.
If not required the unnecessary amino acids are never added.

The polypeptides too have a limited number. If a chain of polypeptide too long it folds as as per the bonds present on amino acids. Therefore mostly polypeptide chain is limited to few hundred amino acids. Example is insulin molecule is formed of two polypeptides attached by S=S bonds.

The smallest polypeptide is oxytocin molecule which consists of eight amino acids.