Protein molecules serve as some of the major structural elements of living systems.
There are thousands of different proteins with a specific functions.
Proteins have many different biological functions Proteins are classified according to their biological roles.
Enzymatic Proteins
Protein found in many enzymes. Enzymes are catalysts, meaning that they increases the rate of reactions e.g. food digestion , sometimes by more than a million times without being destroyed.
Enzymes necessary for the digestion of carbohydrates, fats, proteins.
Transport Proteins
It transport iron, fats, minerals and oxygen.
Structural Proteins
It serves as structural components of cells and organisms. It is the fundamental structural material of every cell in the body.
This functions depends on specific association of protein subunits with themselves as well as with other proteins, carbohydrates or others.
Hormonal Proteins
Hormones are chemical messengers secreted into the bloodstream by various organs, such as the liver. It regulates certain activities so that a constant internal environment is maintain.
For example insulin that plays a key role in regulating the amount of glucose in the blood. It is released from the pancreas in response to a rise in blood glucose levels.
Defensive Proteins
Protein used to build special white blood cells and antibodies as a part of the body’s immune systems for fighting invasion and infection by foreign substances.
Provide energy as last resort
Actually carbohydrates are the primary fuel source but in times of need, protein can be burned to supply energy.
Build and maintain the body
Proteins are used for building and maintaining body tissues. All this tissue must be repaired and replaced.
Functions of protein