Proteins are huge, complex molecules which play vital roles in the body. They do much work in cells and are essential for the structure, function, and regulation of tissues and organs. Proteins work as antibodies, enzymes, messengers, structural components, transport and storage media, and as hormones. The main focus is on proteins as antibodies and hormones.
Proteins as Antibodies
Proteins help in the formation of immunoglobulin or antibodies. Remarkably, antibodies are necessary for the fight against infections, illnesses, or diseases. They help in the protection of the body against harmful disease-causing pathogens like viruses and bacteria. When pathogens enter body cells, the body produces antibodies, which attack them for elimination. Antibodies identify and surround antigens, containing them until they get destroyed by leucocytes. However, in the absence of antibodies, viruses, and bacteria can freely multiply. As a result, the disease-causing pathogens can counter the body’s immune. Once the body produces antibodies against a specific virus or bacteria, the cells remember how to make them with repeat infections. In this case, the antibodies respond fast in consequent attacks by similar bacteria or viruses.
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Proteins as Hormones
Proteins are responsible for the creation of hormones. Hormones are chemical messengers that assist in communication among tissues, organs, and cells. Amino acid chains with various lengths are responsible for the formation of peptides and proteins. Consequently, they form protein hormones, which are secreted by endocrine glands or tissues. For instance, insulin is a protein hormone since it has an amino acid structure. It is responsible for the regulation of blood sugars. Also, insulin helps in the breakdown of glucose stored in the liver. As a result, it raises the blood sugar level in the body. Additionally, secretin is a protein hormone, which assists digestive processes by stimulating the pancreas and intestines to create necessary digestive juices.
Conclusion
Proteins are vital for the body because they work as antibodies and hormones. Antibodies are necessary for the fight against infections, illnesses, and diseases. On the other hand, protein hormones are chemical messengers which assist in communication among tissues, organs, and cells.
