Ask A Scientist© Biology Archive

 
Question:  What is the function of proteins in your body?
Collins

Answer:  Proteins have many functions. They serve as enzymatic catalysts, are used as 
transport molecules (hemoglobin transports oxygen) and storage molecules (iron is stored 
in the liver as a complex with the protein ferritin); they are used in movement (proteins 
are the major component of muscles); they are needed for mechanical support (skin and 
bone contain collagen-a fibrous protein); they mediate cell responses (rhodopsin is a 
protein in the eye which is used for  vision); antibody proteins are needed for immune 
protection; control of growth and cell differentiation uses proteins (hormones).  These 
are just a few examples of the many, many functions of proteins.
---DrPam