Poteins/polypeptides & Nylon-6,6!

I'm finding this question difficult to research:

"Proteins and polypeptides are plymers with have been described as being similar to nylon-6,6.
Sugest with the aid of diagrams and equations:
-Structural similarities.
-Chemical similarities.
-An important difference."

Can someone help me out please.
Thanks a lot. xx

Reply 1

*Joanna*

Look up nylon on Wiki- it has quite a lot on the structure. One of the main points I've found just by scanning is the presence of peptide bonds in both polymers.

'Since each monomer in this copolymer [nylon 6,6] has the same reactive group on both ends, the direction of the amide bond reverses between each monomer, unlike natural polyamide proteins which have overall directionality: C terminal → N terminal'

Both form fibrils, which make it strucurally strong- nylon for seatbelts, tie cords and fibrous proteins for nails, hair, horn etc.

I'm not sure about equations- maybe show how both polymerise?

Reply 2

estranged

Similarities:

-Both polymers contain an amide linkage (-NHCO-).
-Both are able to form hydrogen bonds

Chemical similarities:

-both are formed through condenstation polymerisation, there can be hydrolised back into their monomers

Differences:

-Protein is soluble in water. Nylon insoluble
-Proteins are biodegradable

Hope this helps

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