Globular and fibrous proteins

GLOBULAR AND FIBROUS PROTEINS

 Globular proteins

  • These are proteins, in which the polypeptide chain or chains are tightly coiled in three dimensions to form globular molecules. E.g., enzymes and plasma proteins.
  • They are soluble in water.

Fibrous proteins 

  • Fibrous proteins are those in which the polypeptide chains are either extended or coiled to form linear fibers.
  • They are insoluble in water.
  • They provide mechanical support to the cells or organism. E.g., keratin (the major component of hair and nail), collagen (component of skin, bones, teeth, blood vessel and connective tissues.) and elastin (structural component of skin and blood vessels). 
Last modified: Tuesday, 22 March 2011, 12:21 PM