👉 Proteins, fundamental macromolecules in biology, are complex structures composed of amino acid chains that fold into specific three-dimensional shapes, enabling them to perform a vast array of biological functions. The "protein code" refers to the genetic instructions encoded in DNA, which are translated into amino acid sequences during protein synthesis. These sequences determine the primary structure of a protein, but the folding process—governed by interactions like hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic effects, and disulfide bridges—results in the protein's unique secondary, tertiary, and quaternary structures. This intricate folding is crucial as it dictates the protein's function, such as enzymatic activity, structural support, or signaling. Proteins can also undergo post-translational modifications, further diversifying their roles and interactions within cells. Understanding the relationship between the genetic code (DNA) and the resulting protein structure is central to comprehending biological processes and diseases linked to protein misfolding or malfunction.