system synergy potential (micro-ecosystem stacking)
animal hotels
- species:: chicken
surface ponds
- species:: duckweed, azolla, pomacea, achatina, tilapia, catfish, carp
- function:: protein + aquatic biomass
compost units
vertical towers
dry terraces
logs/shade layer
plant based protein in raw form
need to check
plant based protein in cooked form
insects
proteins are large, complex molecules made up of amino acids that perform a wide variety of functions in the body. they are essential for structure, function, and regulation of tissues and organs, serving as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies.
chemical properties
molecular structure: composed of amino acids linked by peptide bonds, forming polypeptides that fold into specific three-dimensional shapes.
molecular weight: varies significantly depending on the protein (e.g., hemoglobin: ~64,500 g/mol).
solubility: solubility depends on the protein and its environment (e.g., pH, temperature); proteins can be soluble (e.g., albumin) or insoluble (e.g., keratin).
chemical formula: varies; general composition includes carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, and sometimes sulfur (CHON).
usefulness in medicine
proteins are vital for muscle repair and growth, making them crucial for athletes and those recovering from injuries.
they play a central role in enzyme production, which facilitates biochemical reactions in the body.
proteins like antibodies are essential for immune defense against pathogens.
structural proteins like collagen and keratin maintain skin, hair, nails, and connective tissue health.
therapeutic proteins, such as insulin and monoclonal antibodies, are used to treat diseases like diabetes and cancer.
antibacterial and antimicrobial activity
certain proteins, such as defensins and lysozymes, exhibit direct antimicrobial activity by disrupting microbial cell walls and membranes. research highlights:
bacteria:
viruses:
research links
hemoglobin: transports oxygen in the blood.
myosin: involved in muscle contraction and movement.
collagen: provides structure to skin, bones, and connective tissues.
keratin: strengthens hair, skin, and nails.
insulin: regulates blood sugar levels.
albumin: maintains fluid balance in the blood and carries hormones, vitamins, and enzymes.
fibrinogen: essential for blood clotting.
amylase: breaks down carbohydrates into sugars during digestion.
trypsin: aids in protein digestion in the small intestine.
antibodies (immunoglobulins): help the immune system fight infections.
actin: works with myosin for cell movement and muscle contraction.
elastin: provides elasticity to tissues like skin and blood vessels.
cytochrome c: involved in energy production within mitochondria.
casein: a protein found in milk, providing essential amino acids.
lysozyme: destroys bacterial cell walls, offering antimicrobial defense.
enzymes: catalyze biochemical reactions in the body (e.g., lactase for lactose digestion).
monoclonal antibodies: laboratory-made proteins used in treating diseases like cancer.
hormones: protein-based signaling molecules (e.g., growth hormone).
transport proteins: facilitate the movement of molecules (e.g., sodium-potassium pump).