What is the secondary structure of a protein characterized by?

The secondary structure of a protein is characterized by regular local patterns of coils or folds, such as alpha helices and beta sheets. These structures form due to hydrogen bonding between the backbone atoms in the polypeptide chain. This arrangement stabilizes the protein's structure and provides it with specific functional properties.

Understanding the secondary structure is key to interpreting how proteins maintain their integrity and function, as these localized regions influence higher-level structures like tertiary and quaternary forms. The ability of a protein to adopt a secondary structure is crucial for its overall stability and biological activity, enabling it to perform specific functions within a biological system.