On whether protein can be a carbon source
of all things in the world, the wonders of biochemistry depend on the changes of various substances. In the process of biochemistry, the properties and uses of proteins are often studied by commentators. One of the things is whether protein can be a carbon source.

Protein is a macromolecule formed by polymerization of amino acids. Its structure is complex, containing carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and other elements. Looking at its composition, carbon is one of the important components.

Or protein can be a carbon source. Cover the process of biological metabolism, protein is hydrolyzed to form amino acids. Amino acids undergo a series of biochemical reactions to release carbon sources. Such as some microorganisms, in a specific environment, can ingest protein and degrade it through the action of intracellular enzymes. Among them, the carbon chain is gradually cracked, and the carbon produced can enter the metabolic cycle, supply energy and be used as raw materials for the synthesis of new biomass. This is because microorganisms have specific metabolic pathways, which can cleverly use carbon elements in proteins to meet the needs of growth and reproduction.

However, it is also said that proteins are difficult to be carbon sources. The structure of the cover protein is dense and it is not easy to degrade. Its peptide bond is strong, and if you want to break it, you need specific enzymes and suitable conditions. In the case of metabolism in the organism, carbohydrates and lipids are first taken as carbon sources and energy sources. The carbohydrate metabolism pathway is simple and the production capacity is rapid, which is a priority for Protein degradation produces carbon, the process is complex, consumes energy, and is not an efficient choice. Therefore, under normal physiology or ecology, protein is not the primary carbon source.

In summary, protein can be a carbon source in a specific situation and in a specific organism, but generally speaking, it is a conventional and preferred way for non-organisms to obtain carbon sources. The beauty of biological metabolism, each thing has its own way, and it changes according to the situation. This is the mystery of natural biochemistry.