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Protein-Protein Interactions

Meaning

Protein-Protein Interactions (PPIs) are the specific physical contacts established between two or more protein molecules through biochemical forces, resulting in the formation of functional complexes or signaling hubs within a cell. These highly specific interactions are the fundamental basis for virtually all cellular processes, including metabolic pathways, signal transduction, gene expression regulation, and muscle contraction. The dynamic and often transient nature of PPIs allows the cell to rapidly respond to both internal and external stimuli with precision. In the context of hormonal health, the binding of steroid hormone receptors to co-activator or co-repressor proteins is a critical and well-studied example of a PPI.