beta structure
noun Biochemistry.
a secondary structure occurring in many proteins, consisting of several polypeptide chains running in parallel or alternating directions and joined by intermolecular hydrogen bonds, creating a flexible, strong arrangement.
Also called
beta sheet,
pleated sheet.
Words nearby beta structure
beta ray,
beta receptor,
beta rhythm,
beta sheet,
beta stock,
beta structure,
beta test,
beta version,
beta wave,
beta waves,
beta-adrenergic
Scientific definitions for beta sheet
beta sheet
A secondary structure that occurs in many proteins and consists of two or more parallel adjacent polypeptide chains arranged in such a way that hydrogen bonds can form between the chains. Unlike in an alpha helix where the amino acids form a coil, in beta sheets the amino acids are arranged in a zigzag pattern that forms a straight chain. The proteins in silk have a beta-sheet structure. Compare alpha helix random coil.