Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. They all share a basic structure, which includes a central carbon atom called the alpha carbon. Attached to the alpha carbon are four groups:
- A hydrogen atom (H)
- An amino group (NH2)
- A carboxyl group (COOH)
- A side chain (R-group)
The side chain, or R-group, is what differentiates one amino acid from another. There are 20 different amino acids, each with a unique R-group that gives it specific chemical properties. These properties play a crucial role in determining the overall structure and function of proteins.
The presence of both an amino group and a carboxyl group makes amino acids amphoteric, meaning they can act as both acids and bases. This property is essential for the interactions and reactions that occur in proteins.
The unique structural features of amino acids enable them to form long chains called polypeptides through peptide bonds. These polypeptides then fold into complex three-dimensional structures, creating the diverse range of proteins found in living organisms.
