* Amino Acids: The building blocks of proteins. They have a central carbon atom bonded to:
* An amino group (-NH2)
* A carboxyl group (-COOH)
* A hydrogen atom (-H)
* A side chain (R-group) that varies depending on the amino acid.
* Peptide Bond: A covalent bond that forms between the carboxyl group of one amino acid and the amino group of another. This bond releases a water molecule.
* Polypeptide: A chain of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. It can be short or very long, and the sequence of amino acids determines the protein's structure and function.
* Protein: A complex structure made up of one or more polypeptide chains that fold into a specific three-dimensional shape. Proteins have a wide variety of functions in the body, such as:
* Enzymes: Catalyze biochemical reactions
* Structural components: Provide support and shape to cells and tissues
* Hormones: Regulate physiological processes
* Antibodies: Defend against infections
* Transport proteins: Carry molecules across cell membranes
In summary:
* Amino acids are the building blocks.
* Peptide bonds connect them into polypeptides.
* One or more polypeptides fold into a specific shape to form a protein.
The sequence of amino acids in a polypeptide chain is determined by the genetic code, which is encoded in DNA. This sequence ultimately determines the protein's shape and function.
