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OpenStudy (anonymous):

Do proteins function as structural support?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

I read that proteins give structural support to cells.. But I was thinking.. Isn't that Cellulose that gives structural support? plus one more thing I read..that Proteins are not use as ''Primary source of energy'' Is that correct ? If it is..Can anyone explain me?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Proteins are very important molecules in our cells. They are involved in virtually all cell functions. Each protein within the body has a specific function. Some proteins are involved in structural support, while others are involved in bodily movement, or in defense against germs. Proteins vary in structure as well as function. They are constructed from a set of 20 amino acids and have distinct three-dimensional shapes. Below is a list of several types of proteins and their functions. Structural Proteins - are fibrous and stringy and provide support. Examples include keratin, collagen, and elastin. Keratins strengthen protective coverings such as hair, quills, feathers, horns, and beaks. Collagens and elastin provide support for connective tissues such as tendons and ligaments.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Yeah that information that abood2013 copied & pasted is correct. Some proteins do give us structural support. Cellulose isn't a protein. It's a carbohydrate. And you're right -- it does give structural support, to plants. Not humans or animals. Our primary source of energy comes from carbohydrates. Those are all the different sugars that we get from our food and drink.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Okay! So we can't say that ''Proteins are primary source of energy''?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

That's right, we can't.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

But I have read that our body's primary source of energy is through proteins, carbohydrates etc etc!! So is that ''Incorrect''?

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Our PRIMARY source of energy comes from carbohydrates. That is our main source of energy. Here's the thing: have you ever seen a very, very skinny person, and wondered how they were even alive? When our bodies have more sugar than we need, our bodies store away that sugar, in the form of fat. That fat gets used, whenever we need it for energy. But what happens when we need energy, and our body has no more fat? Then our body starts breaking down proteins. We start losing our muscle mass, because it's being burned down for energy. Muscle is protein. So, our body CAN break down proteins for energy, but it only does this when there aren't enough fats or carbohydrates.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

Hmm! Got it...Thanks.

OpenStudy (anonymous):

You'rrreeeeeee WELCOME.

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