Question

Why is it important that a protein keeps its shape?

Answer 1

The shape of a protein allows it to perform its particular job.

Answer 2

It is important that a protein keeps its shape because the function of a protein is determined by its shape.

Proteins are biological molecules that are made up of chains of amino acids known as polypeptides. Proteins perform many important functions in organisms such as acting as catalyst, in DNA replication, in immune response, and movement of molecules within cells. The structure of protein creates the basis for its interaction with other molecules within the cell and, thus, absolutely determines its function. Certain factors such as temperature, pH changes, salt concentration and presence of reducing agents can affect the shape of a protein.