Protein Aggregates: Advantages of Molecular Complexes

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the advantages of proteins aggregating to form molecular complexes, particularly in biological contexts such as mitochondria. Participants explore the implications of these complexes on protein function and interactions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants inquire about the specific advantages of proteins aggregating into complexes compared to functioning independently.
  • There is a suggestion that protein complexes, such as those in mitochondria (Complexes I to IV), may have particular advantages, though these are not explicitly detailed.
  • One participant notes that the formation of complexes can alter protein conformation, potentially changing their function by exposing or hiding active sites.
  • Another participant expresses uncertainty about the term "aggregate" and seeks clarification on what is meant by it in this context.
  • There is a reference to the importance of understanding protein structures (primary, secondary, tertiary, and quaternary) and protein folding in relation to the discussion.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the specific advantages of protein aggregation into complexes, and multiple viewpoints regarding the nature and implications of these complexes remain present.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the definitions of terms like "aggregate" and "advantages" are not fully clarified, leading to potential misunderstandings in the discussion.

gamecube999
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what are the advantages of proteins aggregating together, forming molecular complexes?
 
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Which ones, when and where.
 
anywhere really... for example, in the mitochondria proteins are organised into Complexes (I to IV), what is the advanatge of that?
 
gamecube999, I don't understand about general advantages you want to know, but there are some proteins I know of, what protein are you looking for ?
 
gamecube999 said:
anywhere really... for example, in the mitochondria proteins are organised into Complexes (I to IV), what is the advanatge of that?
If you know enough to say that, then you know what it does.
What's the question?
 
the question is, are there any specific advantages of aggregate into molecular complexes? I know they can then work together etc...
 
Advantages compared to what?

Also, given your example, I don't think I know what you mean by aggregate.
 
advantages of proteins (for example) forming complexes, as opposed to working individually and separately, 'independent of each other'?
 
When proteins form complexes, the molecular interactions can change the conformation, which changes the function by exposing or hiding active sites, for example, on the proteins. Look up information on primary, secondary, tertiary and quaternary protein structures, and/or protein folding, and this will help you understand how changing the shape of a protein through these interactions can change the function of it.
 

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