What gives proteins such a dominant role in biochemistry?
A) the variation in protein sizes
B) the ability to act as a blueprint
C) their ability to self-replicate
D) their ability to spontaneously fold into complex three-dimensional structures
E) All of the above.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Proteins have a dominant role in biochemistry due to their ability to spontaneously fold into complex three-dimensional structures. This allows them to carry out a variety of functions, such as catalyzing biochemical reactions, serving as structural components of cells and tissues, and acting as signaling molecules. While proteins do vary in size, they are typically quite large, and they do not act as blueprints or self-replicate in the same way that nucleic acids do.

What Gives Proteins Such a Dominant Role in Biochemistry