Residue

Definition

In biochemistry, a residue is a single unit within a polymer, such as an amino acid within a protein. It represents the building block after losing water during peptide bond formation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Amino acid residues are linked by peptide bonds to form proteins.
2. Each residue in a protein contributes specific properties to its overall structure and function.
3. The sequence of residues determines the primary structure of a protein.
4. Residues can be modified post-translationally, affecting protein activity and function.
5. The interaction between residues (e.g., hydrogen bonding) is crucial for protein folding.

Review Questions

• What type of bond links amino acid residues in a protein?
• How does the sequence of residues influence the primary structure of a protein?
• Why are post-translational modifications of residues important?

Related terms

Peptide Bond:

A covalent bond that links amino acids together in a protein.

Primary Structure:

The linear sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain.

Post-Translational Modification: Chemical changes to proteins after they have been synthesized, often altering their function.