Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. They are organic compounds that contain an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a side chain (R-group) attached to a central carbon atom.
Related terms
Peptide bond: This term refers to the covalent bond formed between two amino acids through a condensation reaction, resulting in the formation of a dipeptide or polypeptide.
Protein synthesis: The process by which cells build proteins using the instructions encoded in DNA. It involves transcription (DNA to RNA) and translation (RNA to protein).
A type of protein that acts as a catalyst, speeding up chemical reactions in cells. Enzymes are composed of one or more chains of amino acids folded into specific 3D shapes.