Amino acid

Definition

Amino acids are organic compounds that combine to form proteins, which are crucial for various bodily functions. They contain an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a unique side chain specific to each amino acid.

Related terms

Protein: Proteins are large molecules composed of one or more long chains of amino acids, essential for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's cells, tissues, and organs.

Peptide Bond: A peptide bond is a chemical bond formed between two molecules when the carboxyl group of one molecule reacts with the amino group of another molecule, releasing a molecule of water (H2O).

Enzyme: Enzymes are biocatalysts that speed up biochemical reactions in living organisms; they are typically proteins composed of one or more polypeptide chains folded into a complex three-dimensional shape