Can anybody tell me what are Phosphopepitdes?

  • Thread starter karthik3k
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In summary, phosphopeptides are amino acids bonded with a phosphate group, typically found in whole proteins as part of the modification of enzyme activity via phosphorylation. This process is carried out by protein kinases, and the resulting section of the protein containing the phosphorylated amino acid(s) is known as a phosphopeptide.
  • #1
karthik3k
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Can anybody tell me what are Phosphopepitdes ??
 
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  • #2
I've not come across the term before, but peptide denotes amino acids (polypeptides= proteins, peptide bonds join amino acids, etc...) and phospho means with a phosphate group attached (as in phospholipid, phosphorylisation). From this I'd assume an amino acid bonded with a phosphate group.
 
  • #3
mattyaouw's got it right, but to elaborate a little more...specific amino acids namely serine, threonine and thyrosine contain -OH side chains which can be acted on by any number of protein kinases (enzymes) which can then add a phosphate group. Typically this happens in whole proteins as part of the modification of enzyme activity via phosphorylation, in this case it can be called a phosphoprotein. If you were to cut out the section of the protein containing the phosporylated amino acid(s) you would then have a phosphopeptide.
 
  • #4
Welcome to PF DocToxyn!
 

1. What are phosphopeptides?

Phosphopeptides are peptides (short chains of amino acids) that contain a phosphate group attached to one or more of their amino acids. They are important molecules in biological processes such as signal transduction, protein regulation, and enzyme activity.

2. How are phosphopeptides formed?

Phosphopeptides are formed through a process called phosphorylation, in which a phosphate group is added onto a specific amino acid in a peptide chain. This process is typically carried out by enzymes called kinases.

3. What is the function of phosphopeptides?

The function of phosphopeptides varies depending on their location and specific amino acid sequence. Generally, they play important roles in cellular signaling and communication, as well as in regulating the activity of proteins and enzymes.

4. Can phosphopeptides be detected and studied?

Yes, phosphopeptides can be detected and studied using various techniques such as mass spectrometry, protein microarrays, and phospho-specific antibodies. These methods allow scientists to identify and analyze the presence, location, and changes in phosphopeptides in biological samples.

5. How are phosphopeptides involved in diseases?

Abnormal phosphorylation of proteins and peptides has been linked to several diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. By understanding the role of phosphopeptides in these diseases, researchers can potentially develop targeted therapies to treat them.

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