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.

alpha helix

noun

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

alpha helix

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of alpha helix¹

First recorded in 1950–55