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Proteins
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What are Proteins?
Learn.Genetics
Related terms:
amino acid
peptide
Biologically Active Substance
protein Audio
pro·tein [ proh-teen, -tee-in ]
Subclass of:
Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins
Definitions related to proteins:
  • A group of complex organic macromolecules composed of one or more chains (linear polymers) of alpha-L-amino acids linked by peptide bonds and ranging in size from a few thousand to over 1 million Daltons. Proteins are fundamental genetically encoded components of living cells with specific structures and functions dictated by amino acid sequence.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A molecule made up of amino acids that are needed for the body to function properly. Proteins are the basis of body structures such as skin and hair and of substances such as enzymes, cytokines, and antibodies.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • Linear polymers of alpha-L-aminoacids ranging in size from a few thousand to over 1 million daltons, capable of oligomerization, with specific functions dictated by aminoacid sequence and encoded genetically.
    CRISP Thesaurus
    National Institutes of Health, 2006
  • One of the three major nutrients (along with carbohydrates and fats). It is used by the body for building and repairing tissues. Protein is derived primarily from animal sources but can be obtained from nuts and seed, some grains, and other plant sources.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • A representation of an organic macromolecule in public resources (e.g., UniProt or NCBI RefSeq) composed of one or more chains (linear polymers) of alpha-L-amino acids linked by peptide bonds and ranging in size from a few thousand to over 1 million Daltons. Comment Requested: In interest of re-using existing standards, should the above definition of Protein be replaced by the following from the NLM -- : A molecule made up of amino acids that are needed for the body to function properly. Proteins are the basis of body structures such as skin and hair and of substances such as enzymes, cytokines, and antibodies.
    BRIDG Model Dictionary
    Biomedical Research Integrated Domain Group, 2019
  • Linear POLYPEPTIDES that are synthesized on RIBOSOMES and may be further modified, crosslinked, cleaved, or assembled into complex proteins with several subunits. The specific sequence of AMINO ACIDS determines the shape the polypeptide will take, during PROTEIN FOLDING, and the function of the protein.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • Protein, highly complex substance that is present in all living organisms. Proteins are of great nutritional value and are directly involved in the chemical processes essential for life. The importance of proteins was recognized by chemists in the early 19th century, including Swedish chemist Jons...
    Encyclopedia Britannica
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.

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