What are proteins: words from millions of letters

Every cell of the human body is unique. And this identity is provided by proteins. What are proteins? They are also called proteins. They are the champions of the complexity of the molecules that make up the protein substance itself. Especially a lot of proteins in the hair, skin, bones, nails and muscle tissue. But this is not all, proteins are part of hormones, neurotransmitters, antibodies, enzymes and an oxygen carrier called hemoglobin. We owe them 20% of the body weight, so it is so important to get enough of the building material from the food.

Components of a complex whole

As words consist of letters, so also proteins consist of amino acids. In the alphabet of human biochemistry there are 20 "letters". Continuing the analogy, however, it should be noted that the "words" themselves consist of millions of "letters". This complexity means a huge vulnerability of the system. Therefore, the amino acid composition of proteins that you consume is very important. Not enough components - and the molecule can not be collected. Or the body will have to destroy some other molecules. For example, when fasting, amino acids are taken from the blood and bones.

Everyone has their own

What are proteins and why are they very unique? These are combinations of a complex structure, associated at least on three levels (sometimes there are also quaternary proteins). And they are unique because the body synthesizes them based on the genetic information embedded in the DNA of each of us. Each cell has its own "equipment" for protein synthesis - a ribosomal complex. However, in twins, which are biological clones, the proteins are the same, which makes them ideal donors for each other.

Amino acids are required

Because proteins are so individual, the body does not absorb them whole. In the digestive system, proteins break down into amino acids and are absorbed in this form. And then the body sends them to the points where "repair work" is needed. They are needed every day in large quantities in the skin, the lining of the digestive tract and in the growth zones of nails and hair. In short, neglecting proper nutrition is dangerous to health.

Problems of veganism

What are proteins in terms of nutrition? Previously, it was believed that the amino acids of plant proteins can not be a building material, since they are not digested without some amino acids typical for animal tissues. This statement proved to be a myth when tested. When there is digestion in the stomach, amino acids of all kinds are released into the food lump. Thus, all 20 enter the intestines in the right proportions. And everything is perfectly digested. Although vegan is really not very healthy, as there are some vitamins and factors that are not synthesized in "herbivorous" people.

Conductors of processes

Proteins in the human body play an important role in the regulation of both nervous and humoral. Neurotransmitters are substances that ensure the transfer of a pulse from one neuron to another. And humoral regulation with proteins is provided by the synthesis of hormones that slowly but surely control the processes in the body.

Conclusion

What are proteins? These are the components of our body, individual and extremely complex. Consisting of twenty amino acids and intended for protection (proteins of the immune system), regulation and proper construction functions.