Post-translational modifications, or PTMs for short, make it harder to understand how proteins work. Here’s why:

1. Changing Protein Shape: PTMs can change the original shape of proteins. This can mess up how they function.

2. Different Effects: There are many kinds of PTMs, like phosphorylation and glycosylation. Each type can affect proteins in unexpected ways.

3. Hard to Study: Figuring out PTMs can be tricky. Studying them often needs special tools, which makes it tough to understand their role in health and illness.

What We Can Do:

• Using advanced tools like mass spectrometry and computer programs can help us study PTMs better. This could lead to new insights in medical science.