Post-translational regulation refers to the changes that proteins undergo after they have been translated. These changes can affect the protein's function, location, or lifespan.
Think of post-translational regulation like customizing a car after it's been built. You might add racing stripes (phosphorylation), change the tires (glycosylation), or even remove parts (proteolysis). Each modification alters how the car looks and performs.
Phosphorylation: A process that modifies proteins by adding a phosphate group, often changing their function.
Glycosylation: The addition of sugar molecules to proteins, which can affect their stability and function.
Proteolysis: The breakdown of proteins into smaller polypeptides or amino acids. This is often used to regulate protein activity or remove damaged proteins.
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