Deutsch: Protein / Español: Proteína / Português: Proteína / Français: Protêine / Italiano: Proteine
A Protein is a large biological molecule consisting of one or more chains of amino acids. Proteins perform a vast array of functions within living organisms, including catalyzing metabolic reactions, replicating DNA, responding to stimuli, and transporting molecules from one location to another. Proteins differ from one another primarily in their sequence of amino acids, which is dictated by the nucleotide sequence of their genes, and which usually results in folding of the protein into a specific three-dimensional structure that determines its activity.
In an industrial or industry context, the term "protein" refers to the essential macronutrient that is used in the production of food, animal feed, and nutritional supplements. This can include a wide range of products, such as:
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Food ingredients: proteins are often added to food products to enhance their nutritional value, such as whey protein powder in sports supplements and protein bars.
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Animal feed: proteins are an important component of animal feed, providing essential nutrients to livestock and poultry. Examples include soybean meal, corn gluten meal, and canola meal.
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Nutritional supplements: protein supplements, such as protein powders and bars, are commonly used by athletes, bodybuilders, and other people looking to increase their protein intake.
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Biotech: protein research and development is an important part of the biotech industry, including the production of recombinant proteins for use in medicine and biotechnology.
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Pharmaceuticals: proteins are used in the production of many drugs and biopharmaceuticals, including monoclonal antibodies, hormones, and vaccines.
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Agricultural inputs: protein-based fertilizers, such as blood meal and feather meal, are commonly used in agriculture to improve soil health and support plant growth.
These are just a few examples of the many products and industries that are related to "protein" in an industrial or industry context.