protein folding vs folding

protein folding and folding both are nouns.

Word	Noun	Adjective	Verb	Adverb
protein folding	Yes	No	No	No
folding	Yes	Yes	No	No

As nouns, protein folding and folding are synonyms defined as:

protein folding and folding: the process whereby a protein molecule assumes its intricate three-dimensional shape

protein folding (noun)	folding (noun)
the process whereby a protein molecule assumes its intricate three-dimensional shape	the act of folding
	the process whereby a protein molecule assumes its intricate three-dimensional shape
	a geological process that causes a bend in a stratum of rock

protein folding (adjective)	folding (adjective)
	capable of being folded up and stored