Ammosyror

Ammosyror is not a standard term in biochemistry. In Swedish, the common word for amino acids is aminosyror, and most formal sources refer to amino acids rather than Ammosyror. This article therefore summarizes widely accepted knowledge about amino acids as the building blocks of proteins and as individual metabolites.

Amino acids are organic compounds that contain an amino group (–NH2), a carboxyl group (–COOH), a hydrogen atom, and a distinctive side chain (R group) attached to a central alpha carbon. In proteins, most amino acids are in the L-configuration, and glycine is the exception because its side chain is a single hydrogen atom, making it achiral. When amino acids join via peptide bonds, they form polypeptides that fold into functional proteins.

Amino acids are typically classified by their side chain properties into nonpolar, polar uncharged, acidic (glutamate and aspartate), basic (lysine, arginine, histidine), and aromatic groups, as well as into essential, nonessential, and conditional categories. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized sufficiently by humans and must be obtained from the diet; nonessential amino acids can be synthesized by the body.

Biological roles of amino acids include serving as precursors for proteins, enzymes, and signaling molecules; participating in energy metabolism; and acting as neurotransmitters or their precursors in the nervous system. Dietary amino acids support growth, tissue repair, and maintenance of body functions. Common dietary sources include animal products, legumes, grains, and dairy.

Industrially, amino acids are produced by fermentation or chemical synthesis for use in food flavorings, supplements, pharmaceuticals, and as feed additives. Deficiency or imbalance can affect growth, immune function, and overall health.