Introduction

Proteins are essential molecules for the functioning and development of living beings. They are created from the union of amino acids, which join in a certain sequence. Proteins are classified according to their structure, and in this article we are going to talk about the differences between globular proteins and fibrous proteins.

globular proteins

The globular proteins They are molecules with a compact and spherical structure. They are made up of long chains of amino acids folded on themselves. This structure allows them to be soluble in water and participate in important biochemical processes such as the transport of oxygen and nutrients, the defense of the organism and the catalysis of chemical reactions. Examples globular proteins are hemoglobin and myoglobin.

Examples of globular proteins

• Hemoglobin
• Myoglobin
• Enzymes
• Antibodies

fibrous proteins

The fibrous proteins They have an elongated and fibrillar structure. They are made up of chains of amino acids that are grouped into helices or sheets and become parallel to each other, which gives them a fibrous structure. Fibrous proteins are insoluble in water and their main function is to provide support and resistance to the tissues and structures of the body. Examples of fibrous proteins are collagen and keratin.

Examples of fibrous proteins

• collagen
• Keratin
• Elastin
• Fibrin

Differences

Although globular proteins and fibrous proteins are made up of the same basic units (amino acids), their structures and functions are very different.

• Globular proteins have a compact and spherical structure, while fibrous proteins have an elongated and fibrillar structure.
• Globular proteins are soluble in water, while fibrous proteins are insoluble in water.
• Globular proteins mainly participate in biochemical processes such as the transport of oxygen and nutrients, the defense of the organism and the catalysis of chemical reactions, while fibrous proteins provide support and resistance to tissues and structures of the body.

Conclusion

In summary, globular proteins and fibrous proteins have different structures and functions. Globular proteins are soluble in water and have a compact and spherical structure, while fibrous proteins are insoluble in water and have an elongated and fibrillar structure. It is important to understand these differences to better understand the role that proteins play. in our body and in biological processes.

You may also be interested in this related content:

• Discover the keys to differentiating phytoplankton and zooplankton in the ocean
• Difference between cytoplasm and nucleoplasm
• Difference between amylose and amylopectin