Amino Acid Sequence

Definition

The amino acid sequence refers to the specific order in which amino acids are arranged in a protein chain. It determines how proteins fold into their functional shapes and ultimately influences their biological function.

Related terms

Peptide Bond: The chemical bond that connects individual amino acids together during protein synthesis, forming a long chain called polypeptide.

Primary Structure:

Refers to the linear arrangement of amino acids in a protein chain before any folding or secondary structure formation occurs.

Secondary Structure:

The local folding patterns that arise within regions of a protein chain due to hydrogen bonding between amino acids, such as alpha helices and beta sheets.