Dynamics and the Problem of Recognition in Biological Macromolecules

Nonfiction, Science & Nature, Science, Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Biotechnology
Cover of the book Dynamics and the Problem of Recognition in Biological Macromolecules by , Springer US
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: ISBN: 9781461558392
Publisher: Springer US Publication: December 6, 2012
Imprint: Springer Language: English
Author:
ISBN: 9781461558392
Publisher: Springer US
Publication: December 6, 2012
Imprint: Springer
Language: English

From within complex structures of organisms and cells down to the molecular level, biological processes all involve movement. Muscular fibers slide on each other to activate the muscle, as polymerases do along nucleic acids for replicating and transcribing the genetic material. Cells move and organize themselves into organs by recognizing each other through macromolecular surface-specific interactions. These recognition processes involve the mu­ tual adaptation of structures that rely on their flexibility. All sorts of conformational changes occur in proteins involved in through-membrane signal transmission, showing another aspect of the flexibility of these macromolecules. The movement and flexibility are inscribed in the polymeric nature of essential biological macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. For instance, the well-defined structures formed by the long protein chain are held together by weak noncovalent interac­ tions that design a complex potential well in which the protein floats, permanently fluctuating between several micro- or macroconformations in a wide range of frequencies and ampli­ tudes. The inherent mobility of biomolecular edifices may be crucial to the adaptation of their structures to particular functions. Progress in methods for investigating macromolecular structures and dynamics make this hypothesis not only attractive but more and more testable.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

From within complex structures of organisms and cells down to the molecular level, biological processes all involve movement. Muscular fibers slide on each other to activate the muscle, as polymerases do along nucleic acids for replicating and transcribing the genetic material. Cells move and organize themselves into organs by recognizing each other through macromolecular surface-specific interactions. These recognition processes involve the mu­ tual adaptation of structures that rely on their flexibility. All sorts of conformational changes occur in proteins involved in through-membrane signal transmission, showing another aspect of the flexibility of these macromolecules. The movement and flexibility are inscribed in the polymeric nature of essential biological macromolecules such as proteins and nucleic acids. For instance, the well-defined structures formed by the long protein chain are held together by weak noncovalent interac­ tions that design a complex potential well in which the protein floats, permanently fluctuating between several micro- or macroconformations in a wide range of frequencies and ampli­ tudes. The inherent mobility of biomolecular edifices may be crucial to the adaptation of their structures to particular functions. Progress in methods for investigating macromolecular structures and dynamics make this hypothesis not only attractive but more and more testable.

More books from Springer US

Cover of the book Acute Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy by
Cover of the book UML-B Specification for Proven Embedded Systems Design by
Cover of the book Advances in Clinical Child Psychology by
Cover of the book The Concert Song Companion by
Cover of the book Seabird Ecology by
Cover of the book Nutritional Treatment of Chronic Renal Failure by
Cover of the book Surgical Oncology by
Cover of the book Biopsychosocial Approaches in Primary Care by
Cover of the book Extrusion of Aluminium Alloys by
Cover of the book Genomic Diversity by
Cover of the book Deviant Behavior by
Cover of the book Insects, Experts, and the Insecticide Crisis by
Cover of the book Public Program Analysis by
Cover of the book Case Studies in Insomnia by
Cover of the book Pain & Passion by
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy