Amino acids

Definition

Amino acids are organic molecules that serve as the building blocks of proteins. They play a crucial role in cellular processes and are essential for protein synthesis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. There are 20 standard amino acids used in the synthesis of proteins.
2. Amino acids have an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a unique side chain (R group).
3. Peptide bonds link amino acids together to form polypeptides and proteins.
4. The sequence of amino acids in a protein determines its structure and function.
5. Codons in mRNA specify which amino acid will be added next during protein synthesis.

Review Questions

• What are the structural components common to all amino acids?
• How do peptide bonds form between amino acids?
• Why is the sequence of amino acids important for protein function?

Related terms

Codon:

A sequence of three nucleotides in mRNA that specifies an amino acid or stop signal during translation.

Peptide Bond:

A covalent bond formed between two amino acids during protein synthesis.

tRNA:

Transfer RNA, which brings specific amino acids to the ribosome during translation based on codon-anticodon pairing.