alpha helix

noun Biochemistry.

1. the rodlike spatial configuration of many protein molecules in which the polypeptide backbone is stabilized by hydrogen bonds between amino acids in successive helical turns.

noun

1. biochem a helical conformation of a polypeptide chain, found abundantly in the structure of proteins

n.

1. The helical form, turned in a right-handed direction, of many proteins.

1. A common structure of proteins, characterized by a single, spiral chain of amino acids stabilized by hydrogen bonds. Compare beta sheet random coil.