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Every second Quote by T. Colin Campbell

“For an enzyme to be functional, it must fold into a precise three-dimensional shape. How such a complex folding can take place remains a mystery. A small chain of 150 amino acids making up an enzyme has an extraordinary number of possible folding configurations: if it tested 1,012 different…” quote by T. Colin Campbell
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““For an enzyme to be functional, it must fold into a precise three-dimensional shape. How such a complex folding can take place remains a mystery. A small chain of 150 amino acids making up an enzyme has an extraordinary number of possible folding configurations: if it tested 1,012 different configurations every second, it would take about 1,026 years to find the right one. . . . Yet, a denatured enzyme can refold within fractions of a second and then precisely react in a chemical reaction. . . . [I]t demonstrates a stunning complexity and harmony in the universe.21””

T. Colin Campbell

About This Quote

Source Book: The China Study, T. Colin Campbell, 2005

Proteins fold quickly into functional shapes despite astronomically many possibilities, suggesting underlying physical principles.

In simple terms: Proteins find their shape fast despite many options.

Key Takeaway

Trust that natural laws guide efficient folding.

Themes

biology physics complexity

Mood

wonder awe inquisitive

Type

scientific educational

When to use this quote

  • drug design
  • biotech research
  • educational lectures
  • science communication

Key Concepts

protein folding energy landscapes thermodynamics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do cells ensure correct folding?
  • What role do chaperones play?
A Different Perspective

Complexity may be oversimplified without acknowledging cellular chaperones.

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