Backbone

Definition

In peptides and proteins, the backbone refers to the repeated sequence of atoms that forms the core structure to which the various side chains (R groups) of amino acids are attached. It consists primarily of a pattern of -N-C-C- (nitrogen-carbon-carbon) repeating units.

Related terms

Amino Acids:

The building blocks of proteins, consisting of a central carbon atom bonded to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a variable R group.

Peptide Bond:

A covalent chemical bond linking two consecutive amino acid monomers along a peptide or protein chain, formed between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another.

Secondary Structure:

The specific geometric shape formed by sequences in a protein or peptide chain, such as alpha-helixes or beta-sheets, resulting from hydrogen bonding between backbone components.