Definition

A chain of amino acids that forms part of a protein, usually consisting of 10 to 100 amino acids.

Example

Insulin is a type of polypeptide that helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a polypeptide?

Yeah, I think it's a chain of amino acids, right?

Exactly! They play a big role in protein structure.

That's cool! I love learning about how our bodies work.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Polypeptide → It is formed from "poly-" (from Greek "polus", meaning many) and "peptidum" (from Greek "peptos", meaning digested or cooked). The word "polypeptide" refers to a chain of many amino acids that have been linked together, resembling a sequence that has been processed or formed.

Memory Tip

Think of 'many' ('poly-') amino acids that are 'linked together' ('peptidum') to form a chain, which is what a polypeptide is.

Visually Confused Words