Amínósýrunni

Amínósýrunni, or amino acid in English, is a fundamental organic molecule that serves as the building blocks of proteins. Each amino acid consists of a central carbon atom, known as the alpha-carbon, to which four groups are attached: an amino group (NH2), a carboxyl group (COOH), a hydrogen atom (H), and a side chain, also called an R-group. The R-group is the defining feature of each amino acid and varies in structure and properties, leading to the diversity of amino acids.

There are twenty common amino acids that are incorporated into proteins in living organisms. These are often categorized based on the properties of their R-groups, such as being polar, nonpolar, acidic, or basic. The sequence of these amino acids in a polypeptide chain determines the protein's unique three-dimensional structure and its specific function.

Amino acids play crucial roles beyond protein synthesis. They are involved in various metabolic pathways, act as neurotransmitters, and serve as precursors for the synthesis of other important biomolecules like hormones and nucleic acids. The body can synthesize some amino acids, known as non-essential amino acids, while others, called essential amino acids, must be obtained from the diet. The precise arrangement and types of amino acids are vital for maintaining cellular function and overall organismal health.