Amino acid

Definition

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. They contain an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a unique side chain.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are 20 standard amino acids used by cells to synthesize proteins.
2. Amino acids can be categorized as essential or non-essential based on whether they can be synthesized by the body.
3. They play critical roles in metabolic pathways, gene expression, and cellular signal transduction.
4. The sequence and composition of amino acids determine a protein's structure and function.
5. Amino acids participate in the formation of peptide bonds through dehydration synthesis.

Review Questions

• How many standard amino acids are there in protein synthesis?
• What determines whether an amino acid is considered essential or non-essential?
• What type of bond do amino acids form during protein synthesis?

Related terms

Peptide Bond:

A covalent bond formed between two amino acids during protein synthesis.

Protein Folding:

The process by which a protein takes its functional three-dimensional shape.

Enzyme:

A biological catalyst that accelerates chemical reactions, often composed of proteins made from chains of amino acids.