What is the structure of amino acids, and how do they form proteins?

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, consisting of an amino group, carboxyl group and side chain.

Proteins are formed by linking amino acids together through peptide bonds, creating a long chain called a polypeptide. Each amino acid has a unique side chain, or R group, that determines its chemical properties and how it interacts with other amino acids in the chain.

There are 20 different amino acids commonly found in proteins, each with a unique R group. Some R groups are hydrophobic, meaning they repel water, while others are hydrophilic, meaning they attract water. This affects how the protein folds into its final shape.

The sequence of amino acids in a protein is determined by the genetic code, with each three-letter codon in DNA corresponding to a specific amino acid. Once the polypeptide chain is formed, it undergoes folding and modification to form the final protein structure.

Proteins have a wide range of functions in the body, including catalysing chemical reactions, transporting molecules, and providing structural support. The specific function of a protein is determined by its shape, which is in turn determined by the sequence of amino acids in the chain. Any changes to this sequence can result in a non-functional protein and potentially lead to disease.