PEPTIDE DOMAIN Meaning and
Definition
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A peptide domain refers to a specific region within a larger protein molecule that is composed of a sequence of amino acids bonded together through peptide bonds. Peptides are short chains of amino acids that are less than 50 amino acids in length, and they play a fundamental role in numerous biological processes. A peptide domain can exist as an independent functional unit within a protein or may serve as a building block for the formation of larger protein structures.
The primary structure of a protein consists of a linear sequence of amino acids, and peptide domains are responsible for contributing to the overall three-dimensional structure and function of the protein. Each peptide domain may possess unique properties, such as specific binding sites, catalytic activity, or interaction with other molecules. These domains are often conserved in evolution and are repeated in various proteins, contributing to their common functions.
By having distinct peptide domains, a single protein can perform multiple functions or interact with different partners within a cell. Peptide domains allow for modularity and versatility in protein structure, giving rise to a wide range of biological activities. Understanding the organization and function of peptide domains within proteins is crucial for unraveling the complex mechanisms of cellular processes and can be beneficial for developing therapeutics targeting specific protein domains.
Common Misspellings for PEPTIDE DOMAIN
- oeptide domain
- leptide domain
- -eptide domain
- 0eptide domain
- pwptide domain
- psptide domain
- pdptide domain
- prptide domain
- p4ptide domain
- p3ptide domain
- peotide domain
- peltide domain
- pe-tide domain
- pe0tide domain
- pepride domain
- pepfide domain
- pepgide domain
- pepyide domain
- pep6ide domain
- pep5ide domain
Etymology of PEPTIDE DOMAIN
The word "peptide" originates from the Greek word "peptos", which means "digestible" or "to digest". It was first coined by the German chemist and physiologist, Theodor Wilhelm Engelmann, in the late 19th century. Engelmann used the term to describe small protein molecules that can be broken down or digested.
The term "domain" has a broader etymology. It comes from the Latin word "dominum", which means "property" or "territory". Over time, "domain" evolved to refer to various specific areas or regions, both in physical and abstract contexts. In the context of science and biology, a domain often refers to a distinct functional or structural region within a larger molecule.
Therefore, the term "peptide domain" refers to a specific area or region within a peptide molecule, which may have unique properties or functions.
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