Caseins
Casein Properties: Unique physical properties distinct from globular proteins. Influences behavior and properties of other milk constituents. Low solubility at pH 4.6, allowing separation from whey proteins. Protein Structure: High molecular weight polymers of α-amino acids. Primary structure: polypeptide chain linked by peptide bonds. L-configuration for all amino acids except glycine. Casein Composition: Contains ester-bound phosphate (absent in whey proteins). αs1- and β-caseins lack cysteine; αs2- and κ-caseins have two cysteine residues. High proline content (αs1: 17%, αs2: 5%, β: 17%, κ: 12%). Structural Features: No organized secondary structure. Contains short α-helix or β-sheet structures. Ionizable groups are accessible for titration and reactions. Denaturing agents and heat do not affect secondary structure. High proline content prevents closely packed, orderly conformation. Aggregation & Charge Distribution: Four caseins differ in charge distribution. Varying tendency t...