Biochemistry and Genetics: Post Translational Modifications

Free online lectures by Biochemistry Club

Post Translational Modifications: Trimming, Covalent attachments, Protein folding and Degradation(by Ubiquitination)

  • Many polypeptide chains are covalently modified.
  • These are modified either while they are still attached to the ribosome, known as  Cotranslational modifications, or
  • After their synthesis has been completed. These are called Post translational modifications,
  • These modifications may include removal of part of the translated sequence or
  • The covalent addition of one or more chemical groups required for protein activity.
  • These modifications are:
    1. Trimming
    2. Covalent attachments
    3. Protein folding
    4. Protein degradation.

1. Trimming

  • The Precursor molecules (Proteins that are synthe4sized) are not functionally active.
  • Some portions or parts of the protein chain must be removed.
  • This function is carried out by specialized known as Endoproteases.
  • This removal of a part from the chain results in the release of an active molecule.
  • For example Insulin, Angiotensin

2. Covalent Attachments

  • The newly formed Proteins may be activated or inactivated by the covalent attachment of a variety of chemical groups.
  • These include:
    1. Phosphorylation: Phosphorylation occurs on the hydroxyl groups of serinethreonine; or, less frequently, tyrosine residues.
    2. Glycosylations: almost all proteins in the body are glycosylated except 3 types of proteins.
    3. Hydroxylations: also occurs in various proteins.
    4. Other

3. Protein Folding

  • Proteins after synthesis, must fold to assume their functional, native state.
  • Folding can be spontaneous (as a result of the primary structure) or
  • Facilitated by proteins known as chaperones….

FOR COMPLETE LESSON ALONG WITH DIAGRAMS PLEASE CLICK THE GENETICS TAB IN THE DROP DOWN MENU OF BIOCHEMSITRY II. THEN CLICK CURRICUM

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *