Proteins are essential for many biological functions, including:
* Structure: They provide support and shape to cells, tissues, and organs.
* Enzymes: They catalyze (speed up) chemical reactions in the body.
* Hormones: They act as chemical messengers, regulating various bodily functions.
* Antibodies: They help the immune system fight off infections.
* Transport: They carry molecules, such as oxygen, throughout the body.
The specific sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its unique three-dimensional structure and function.