Amino acids

Definition

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins, consisting of a basic amino group, an acidic carboxyl group, and a distinctive side chain that determines the characteristics of each amino acid. They play essential roles in various biological processes, including metabolism and the structure and function of proteins, which are crucial for life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are 20 standard amino acids that are used to build proteins in living organisms.
2. Amino acids can be classified into essential and non-essential types, with essential ones needing to be consumed through diet.
3. The sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its unique structure and function, affecting how it interacts with other molecules.
4. During translation, ribosomes read mRNA sequences in sets of three nucleotides (codons) to assemble the corresponding amino acids into polypeptides.
5. Amino acids also play critical roles in metabolism, serving as precursors for hormones, neurotransmitters, and other important biomolecules.

Review Questions

• How do amino acids contribute to protein structure and function?
  • Amino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins. Their specific sequence in a polypeptide chain determines how the protein will fold and its three-dimensional structure. This structure is crucial because it dictates the protein's function, including enzyme activity, cellular signaling, and structural roles within cells. Any changes in the sequence can lead to changes in function or even result in diseases.
• What is the significance of peptide bonds in protein synthesis?
  • Peptide bonds are critical for linking amino acids together during protein synthesis. They form between the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another, creating a polypeptide chain. This process occurs during translation when ribosomes read mRNA sequences to assemble proteins. Without peptide bonds, proteins could not be formed, which would disrupt numerous biological functions.
• Evaluate how deficiencies in essential amino acids might affect overall health.
  • Deficiencies in essential amino acids can have serious consequences on overall health. Since these amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body, inadequate intake from diet can impair protein synthesis, leading to muscle wasting, weakened immune response, and hormonal imbalances. Furthermore, lacking specific essential amino acids can disrupt the production of neurotransmitters and enzymes, affecting mental health and metabolic processes. This highlights the importance of a balanced diet rich in all essential amino acids for maintaining health.

Related terms

Peptide bonds:

Covalent bonds formed between the amino group of one amino acid and the carboxyl group of another, linking amino acids together to form peptides and proteins.

Protein synthesis: The process by which cells build proteins, involving transcription of DNA to mRNA and translation of mRNA into amino acid sequences.

Essential amino acids:

Amino acids that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from dietary sources for proper health.