Baltym

Baltym is a term used in some contexts to denote a protein, although in modern Polish the preferred term is białko. In biochemistry, baltym refers to a macromolecule composed predominantly of amino acids linked by peptide bonds. The sequence of amino acids encodes a protein's unique structure and function. There are 20 standard amino acids; proteins may be simple polypeptides or conjugated with non-protein groups (glycoproteins, lipoproteins, metalloproteins).

Proteins exhibit hierarchical structure: primary structure is the amino acid sequence; secondary structures such as alpha helices and beta sheets; tertiary structure is the three-dimensional folding; quaternary structure arises from multiple polypeptide chains. Folding is stabilized by hydrogen bonds, disulfide bridges, ionic interactions, and hydrophobic effects. Denaturation disrupts structure and often function, caused by heat, pH, or chemicals; some proteins refold under suitable conditions.

Functions include acting as enzymes, structural components (collagen, keratin), transport (hemoglobin, membrane transporters), immune defense (antibodies), catalysis, regulation (hormones), and storage (ferritin). Nutritionally, dietary proteins supply essential amino acids that the body cannot synthesize; digestion by proteases releases amino acids and short peptides for absorption in the small intestine.

Classification typically distinguishes globular proteins (enzymes, antibodies) from fibrous proteins (collagen, keratin); simple proteins from conjugated proteins. In nutrition and health, protein quality is assessed by digestibility and amino acid balance. In Polish usage, baltym is encountered mainly in historical or technical texts; contemporary texts prefer białko.