WHAT IS A PROTEIN?

WHAT IS A PROTEIN?

 

by Facilitator Diana Restrepo-Osorio
 

On March 12th we looked at RNA translation as part of the protein synthesis process. We made sure to emphasize the steps to create a tertiary to quaternary protein structure and the fact that for most protein's structure equals function. The structure that the protein takes is directly related to where in the body it will be directed to carry out a specific function. 

We reiterated that 3 nucleotides form a codon which in turn code for an amino acid.  A chain of amino acids creates a primary structure protein which later folds into secondary, tertiary and quaternary shapes respectively.

The poster we presented showed a primary structure protein with amino acids represented by purple circles in a "chain". Next to it was an example of a quaternary structure protein of hemoglobin. 

On the sides of the poster, there were photos of different forms that proteins take and surround us day to day. We talked about how proteins seem to have a particular way to arrange themselves in body structures. For example, we looked at hair as an example of proteins and we talked about how hair structure includes scales, nails have layers, and muscles are almost conglomerates of muscle strings.

Other protein forms that we ingest were represented in photos of beans and peanuts.  There were displays of protein powders and peanuts for students to better picture what was being explained.

As hands-on activities, we had a muscle man model that could be taken apart to explore not only how the muscles in the human body are set up but also what organs are protected by muscles and bone structure.  There were 4 microscopes set up where students could see a real hair's structure, smooth uterus muscle, skeletal muscle and a slide of the dermis with its hair creating structure.

This was a complementary station to the other stations that talked about the translation process.

Overall, the students and families in general seemed very interested in looking at the samples in the microscopes and children were delighted to play with the muscle man.

I enjoyed seeing families make connections between their previous knowledge and the information we provided.

Diana L Restrepo-Osorio
Latin American Studies MA Student
The University of Kansas