As illustrated in the video segment, it is the motions of parts of the hemoglobin molecule that makes this binding and release action work. If disturbed by a very quick blast of radio waves, this alignment is disrupted and these little magnets gradually relax back into alignment with the field. Researchers can interpret this NMR relaxation to get very detailed information about molecular motion and how proteins do their many different tasks in the body. A protein's structure and activity allow it to accomplish its function. You need to eat protein to survive.
Student Activity Build a small protein and alter it to form new proteins.
In this activity, you'll build a model of a protein with four helix units. Attach the cotton balls to the Velcro an inch apart from each other. Position four tubes together so that the cotton balls of one tube touch the Velcro strip of another. They should be able to hold together this way. Scientists refine understanding of protein folding and design.