Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Proteins are large biomolecules made up of long chains of amino acids that perform various functions in cells. They play critical roles in processes such as metabolism, cell signaling, and structural support.
Enzymes are proteins that act as catalysts for chemical reactions. They speed up biochemical reactions by lowering the activation energy required for them to occur.
Polypeptide: A polypeptide is a chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds before it folds into its functional protein structure.