key term - Primary Structure

Definition

The primary structure of a protein refers to the sequence of amino acids that make up the protein. It's like the unique order of letters in a sentence.

Related terms

Amino Acids:

These are organic compounds that combine to form proteins. They're like individual letters that make up words (proteins).

Peptide Bond: This is the chemical bond formed between two molecules when the carboxyl group of one molecule reacts with the amino group of another molecule, releasing water (H2O). It's like glue holding our beads together on our string.

Polypeptide: A polypeptide is a single linear chain of many amino acids, held together by peptide bonds. It's like a sentence made from words (amino acids).