Globular protein

Globular proteins, also known as spheroproteins, represent a major structural class of proteins characterized by their compact, roughly spherical shapes and solubility in aqueous solutions (Britannica, 2023). This broad category includes the majority of biologically active proteins, such as enzymes, antibodies, and transport molecules like hemoglobin and myoglobin (Molecular Biology of the Cell, 4th ed.). Their structure is maintained by a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic surface, allowing them to remain mobile and interact specifically with other molecules in the cytoplasm or blood. While many individual globular proteins are critical therapeutic targets, the term itself refers to a general morphology rather than a specific molecular entity. Consequently, it is considered too broad for use as a discrete target in drug development, where specificity to a particular protein active site or regulatory domain is required (Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology, 2018). Because of this lack of specificity, Globular proteins as a collective group does not possess a singular mechanism of action or a defined set of interacting drugs.

Other names

SpheroproteinFunctional protein

Not applicable as a single target; individual globular proteins have specific mechanisms of action.