Transcript Genetics Protein Project

Myoglobin
By Emily Espinosa
Amino Acid Sequence
Structure

Myoglobin is a single-chain,
iron-containing protein
found in muscle fibers,
structurally similar to a single
subunit of hemoglobin.
Human myoglobin has 153
amino acid residues in a
highly folded and compact
structure with eight separate
and distinct alpha helical
secondary structures.
Function


Its main function is to carry oxygen molecules to
muscle tissues.
It comprises of a single polypeptide chain and a heme
(an iron containing molecule that binds with protein)
group, which reversibly binds a molecule of oxygen.
This is only relinquished at relatively low external
oxygen concentrations, e.x. during strenuous exercise
when muscle oxygen demand outpaces supply from the
blood. Therefore, myoglobin acts as an emergency
oxygen store.
Uses

It is used by humans and any other animal with
muscles.
Pics
Why I chose myoglobin
It sounded interesting and its important for our
muscles.
Other facts

It is found abundantly in the tissues of diving
mammals, e.x., the whale, the seal, and the
dolphin. High concentrations of myoglobin in
these animals presumably allows them to store
sufficient oxygen to remain underwater for long
periods.
Work Cited
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http://www3.interscience.wiley.com:8100/legac
y/college/boyer/0471661791/structure/HbMb
/hbmb.htm
http://www.protasis.com/images/MbRib%20%20Myoglobin%20W.gif
http://themedicalbiochemistrypage.org/images
/myoglobin.jpg
http://web.virginia.edu/Heidi/chapter5/Images
/8883n05_30.jpg