aminohappede

Aminohappede, often translated as amino acids, are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. They possess a central carbon atom, known as the alpha-carbon, to which an amino group (containing nitrogen), a carboxyl group (containing carbon and oxygen), a hydrogen atom, and a side chain are attached. The specific chemical structure of the side chain, denoted by 'R', distinguishes one amino acid from another.

There are twenty common amino acids that are found in nature and are incorporated into proteins. These twenty are categorized into essential, non-essential, and conditionally essential amino acids. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained through diet. Non-essential amino acids can be produced by the body. Conditionally essential amino acids are normally non-essential but become essential under certain physiological conditions, such as illness or stress.

Amino acids link together through peptide bonds to form long chains, which then fold into specific three-dimensional structures to create functional proteins. These proteins carry out a vast array of biological functions, including catalyzing metabolic reactions, transporting molecules, providing structural support, and playing roles in the immune system and cell signaling. The sequence of amino acids in a protein is determined by genetic information and dictates its unique properties and function. Beyond protein synthesis, amino acids also serve as precursors for various important molecules like neurotransmitters and hormones.