In collagen, some of the chains of the triple helices in...

Name: Problem 83, Chapter 22: Introduction to General, Organic and Biochemistry
Uploaded: 2021-04-24T06:03:25-08:00
Duration: 3 min 12 s
Channel: Fatmah Hani
Description: In collagen, some of the chains of the triple helices in tropocollagen are cross-linked by covalent bonds between two lysine residues. What kind of structure is formed by these cross-links? Explain.

In collagen, some of the chains of the triple helices in tropocollagen are cross-linked by covalent bonds between two lysine residues. What kind of structure is formed by these cross-links? Explain.

Labs

Want to see this concept in action?

NEW

Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.

View Labs

Key Concepts

Quaternary Structure in Proteins

Quaternary structure refers to the higher-order assembly of multiple protein subunits into a functional complex. In collagen, the covalent links formed between the triple helices represent a type of quaternary structure, as they integrate individual tropocollagen molecules into a cohesive, stable matrix.

Post-Translational Modifications

The formation of covalent bonds between lysine residues is a post-translational modification, often mediated by enzymes such as lysyl oxidase. This modification is crucial for converting the soluble tropocollagen into insoluble, mechanically resilient collagen fibrils.

Collagen Hierarchical Structure

Collagen is organized into a hierarchical structure, beginning with polypeptide chains that assemble into a triple helix (tropocollagen), which then further aggregates into fibrils and fibers. This layered organization is crucial for the mechanical strength and integrity of connective tissues.

Covalent Cross-Linking

Covalent cross-linking involves the formation of stable, irreversible bonds between specific amino acid residues (in this case, lysine) on adjacent collagen molecules. These bonds enhance the stability and durability of the collagen structure, ensuring that it can withstand mechanical stresses.

Transcript

Please give Ace some feedback