Answer to Question #108650 in Molecular Biology for amir

Question

Proteins are famous for their ability to catalyze biochemical reactions. However,
proteins have other functions in microorganisms. Name at least six other
functions and indicate if the function is common among most microorganisms
or specific to select microbial types.

Answer 1

Protein functions in microorganisms:

• transport. Proteins are involved in the formation of pores that provide the transport of various molecules inside and outside the cell. These structures are present all bacteria.
• motion. Some protein structures provide the movements of bacteria cells. For example, some microorganisms (i.e., Salmonella, Escherichia, Vibrio, etc.) have flagella serving as movement organelle.
• storage. Some proteins are involved in the storage of some elements and compounds. For example, ferritin is a protein that stores iron ions.
• adhesion. Some surface proteins and protein structures provide the direct binding between bacteria and host cells serving as adhesion molecules.
• protection. Some bacterial proteins bind antibiotics and other compounds that may inhibit bacterial growth. These protective proteins are present in multiple bacteria species.
• structure. Some bacteria proteins are embedded into the cell wall of bacteria cells maintaining the structural integrity of the cell.