Fehérjeanyag

Fehérjeanyag, also known as protein, is a fundamental biological molecule essential for life. It is composed of chains of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. These amino acid sequences fold into specific three-dimensional structures, which determine the protein's function. Proteins play a vast array of roles in living organisms, acting as enzymes to catalyze biochemical reactions, structural components of cells and tissues, transport molecules carrying substances throughout the body, antibodies that defend against pathogens, and signaling molecules that regulate cellular processes.

The building blocks of proteins, amino acids, are categorized as essential and non-essential. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet. Non-essential amino acids can be produced by the body. The sequence of amino acids in a protein is dictated by genetic information encoded in DNA. This sequence is crucial; even a single change can alter the protein's structure and function, sometimes leading to disease.

Dietary protein is broken down in the digestive system into individual amino acids, which are then absorbed and used by the body to synthesize its own proteins. Adequate protein intake is vital for growth, repair of tissues, and maintaining overall health. Sources of protein include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds.