Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, and each amino acid is distinguished by the chemical nature of its side chain (R-group). Among the twenty standard amino acids, a small subset is characterized by aromatic side chains. Amino acids with aromatic side chains contain a …
The term epigenetics refers to the study of heritable changes in gene function that occur without alterations in the DNA sequence itself. Unlike genetic mutations, which modify the nucleotide code, epigenetic mechanisms influence how genes are expressed—essentially turning them “on” or “off” in response to developmental …
The regulation of gene expression is a cornerstone of molecular biology, determining how cells function, differentiate, and respond to environmental cues. One of the most crucial epigenetic mechanisms governing gene activity is histone modification. Histones are the structural proteins around which DNA is wrapped to form …
What is Alanine Transaminase? Alanine transaminase (ALT), also known as serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), is a crucial enzyme in the human body, primarily associated with liver health. Its measurement in blood tests is an essential diagnostic tool that provides insights into liver function and overall metabolic …
Though proteins can be stored with cosolvents such as salts and polyols to enhance their stability and activity for biological and biotechnological applications, however, the mechanisms for protein stability remain elusive. Generally, these cosolvents promote the shifting of protein conformations towards a more compact form and …
Angiotensin II from Angiotensinogen Angiotensin is a group of peptide hormones that contains mainly four types; I, II, III, and IV. However, the biologically active form is angiotensin II. All of these are produced from the single precursor protein angiotensinogen in different steps. Angiotensinogen is a …
Proteins associated with or embedded in a biological cell membrane are called membrane proteins. Membrane proteins are of two types. Integral Proteins Proteins that are embedded deeply in the plasma membrane are integral proteins. They are held inside the membrane by hydrophobic interaction. Integral proteins may …
