alpha helix

noun

Biochemistry.

1. the rodlike spatial configuration of many protein molecules in which the polypeptide backbone is stabilized by hydrogen bonds between amino acids in successive helical turns.

alpha helix

noun

1. biochem a helical conformation of a polypeptide chain, found abundantly in the structure of proteins

alpha helix

1. A common structure of proteins, characterized by a single, spiral chain of amino acids stabilized by hydrogen bonds.

2. Compare beta sheet random coil

Word History and Origins

Origin of alpha helix¹

First recorded in 1950–55