Salt bridge

Definition

A salt bridge in the context of protein structure refers to a bond formed between oppositely charged side chains of amino acids, stabilizing the protein's tertiary or quaternary structure. These electrostatic interactions are crucial for maintaining the specific three-dimensional shape necessary for the protein's function.

Related terms

Amino acids: The building blocks of proteins, each with a unique side chain that can interact to form various types of bonds including salt bridges.

Tertiary structure: The three-dimensional folding pattern of a protein due to interactions among its amino acid side chains, including salt bridges.

Electrostatic interaction: A type of non-covalent bond between charged molecules or atoms, such as those involved in forming salt bridges within proteins