Proteins has a critical physiological function.

Protein is primarily use in the body to build,

maintain and repair boy tissues. Also protein are a class of macromolecules that perform a
diverse range of functions for the cell. They help in metabolism by providing structural
support and by acting as enzymes, carriers, or hormones. The building blocks of proteins are
amino acids. Proteins are the machinery that makes life possible. Their varied structures
allow for a great variation in function.
The functions of proteins can be classified in seven different ways
1. Contractile Proteins
These proteins are responsible for the movement of muscles in the body. They are
involved in the transport of nutrients in cells, the genetic make up, cell division, as well as
muscular coordination.

Example:- The proteins myosin and actin, together produce muscle contractions and
relaxations.

2. Defensive Proteins
The antibodies produced by the body to fight diseases or prevent injury are called
defensive proteins. Presence of an antigen or a foreign particle like bacteria, viruses, pollen or
non-matching blood types, triggers the production of antibodies. It opposes the antigen and
weakens it, so that it can be eradicated or destroyed by the white blood cells. Antibodies are
also called immunoglobulins.

Example:- Fibrinogen and thrombin are antibodies that facilitate blood clotting, and prevent
the loss of blood following an injury. They also aid in the healing process, so that an
individual recovers faster.

3. Enzymatic Proteins
Enzymes are the catalysts of biochemical reactions that occur in the body. They
accelerate and alleviate these reactions, which otherwise may take years to complete. Thus,
they increase the metabolic rate, and regulate various life processes like digestion, blood
clotting, etc. About 2,000 enzymes have been identified, which catalyze specific reactions in
the body, and help sustain life.

Example:- The enzymes amylase and pepsin aid digestion by breaking down complex
molecules like starch and proteins respectively, into simpler ones, so they can be absorbed by
the small intestine.

4, Hormonal Proteins
Hormones are secretions that act as messengers to initiate or influence a function and
coordinate certain metabolic processes in the body. These hormonal proteins help in
regulating these actions.

Example:- In females, oxytocin is the hormone that stimulates contractions during childbirth.
Insulin regulates glucose in the blood.

5, Storage Proteins
These proteins store amino acids and metal ions needed in the body. They also act as
food reserves that provide energy as and when required by the body.
Example:- The protein ferritin stores iron and controls the amount of iron present in the
human body. Casein, found in milk, is another type of storage protein that provides certain
amino acids, carbohydrates, calcium, and phosphorous.

6. Structural Proteins
These proteins help maintain structure and provide support to the human body. They give
strength and protection to the human anatomy.

Example:- The protein collagen is the major component of tendons, cartilages, and bones.
Hair and fingernails consist an insoluble protein called keratin.

7. Transport Proteins
These proteins help transport various molecules which include nutrients, gases, and all
the essential chemicals that help maintain balance in the human body.
Example:- Hemoglobin that carries oxygen to the lungs and various cells in the human body,
and lipoproteins which help transport lipids or fats.