Side chain

Definition

In the context of amino acids, a side chain is a unique chemical group attached to the central carbon atom that differentiates one amino acid from another. The properties of these side chains determine the overall behavior and function of the amino acid in proteins.

Related terms

Amino acid:

A molecule that serves as the building block of proteins, consisting of a central carbon atom bonded to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a variable side chain.

Polypeptide:

A polymer formed by linking multiple amino acids together through peptide bonds, eventually folding into functional proteins based on the nature of their amino acid constituents.

Hydrophobic interaction: A type of non-covalent bonding that occurs between molecules or parts of molecules that are repelled by water; often driven by hydrophobic side chains within proteins pushing away from aqueous environments