alpha helix


nounBiochemistry.
  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.

Origin of alpha helix

1
First recorded in 1950–55

Words Nearby alpha helix

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British Dictionary definitions for alpha helix

alpha helix

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

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Scientific definitions for alpha helix

alpha helix

  1. A common structure of proteins, characterized by a single, spiral chain of amino acids stabilized by hydrogen bonds. Compare beta sheet random coil.

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