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.

Analogy

Think of an amino acid sequence as letters forming words on a Scrabble board. Just like different arrangements of letters create different words with distinct meanings, different sequences of amino acids give rise to unique proteins with specific functions.

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.