Question

How is the confirmation of a protein directly linked to its function?

Answer 1

A protein's specific conformation determines it's function, as the function depends on its ability to recognise and bind to some other molecules.

Explanation:

A functional protein consists of one or more polypeptides that have been coiled and folded into a unique shape. Even a slight change in primary structure can affect a protein's conformation and thus it's ability to function.

For example:
1) antibodies bind to particular foreign substances, that fit their binding sites.
2) enzymes recognises and bind to specific substrates, facilitating a chemical reaction.
3) neurotransmitters pass signals from one cell to another by binding to receptor sites on proteins in the membrane of the receiving cell.

Protein conformation is of paramount importance in understanding biomolecules interactions. If the 3-D structure is lost the protein may not function or may result in harmful diseases. For example in individuals with sickle cell anaemia, abnormal hemoglobin develops because of a single amino-acid substitution.