Describe the structure of keratin and collagen and show how their structures are suited to their biological functions. Discuss one disease/ metabolic disorder that can arise from a structural defect in either protein.

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Describe the structure of keratin and collagen and show how their structures are suited to their biological functions. Discuss one disease/ metabolic disorder that can arise from a structural defect in either protein.

Keratin and collagen are very vital within the body's structure; both are very similar in nature, being that they derive from amino acids, which make up their respective proteins. They both fall under a group of particular proteins known as scleroproteins or fibrous in nature. Majority of their structure consist of left-handed helix structures1. Scleroproteins make up one of the two major protein categories, the other being globular. Keratin and collagen each represent one of the three subclasses within scleroproteins. As scleroproteins their jobs are to provide support and protection for the body. They are adapt for this because of their complex structure of repeating polypeptide chains which strengthen as the bind together; this and their insolubility are vital in maintaining the anatomy of the body. Whilst being similar in some ways, collagen and keratin remain different in their specific functions and role.

As mentioned above keratin is one of the three scleroproteins. It is an extremely strong, insoluble tertiary protein;