Amino acids

Introduction

• Proteins, which are essential for various biological functions in our bodies, are constructed from smaller units known as amino acids.
• Amino acids serve as the building blocks of proteins and play a crucial role in the formation of different types of proteins, such as those found in skin, muscles, hair, fingernails, and enzymes.

Amino Acid Structure

• Amino acid molecules consist of two important functional groups: the carboxyl group (-COOH) and the amino group (-NH₂).
• There are approximately 20 different types of amino acids found in nature, each with a unique "R group" that varies in its atomic composition.

Essential Amino Acids

• The human body cannot produce all the necessary amino acids required for building proteins.
• It relies on obtaining certain amino acids, known as "essential amino acids," from dietary protein sources.
• In total, eight amino acids are considered essential for humans, with an additional two required during childhood.

Variety of Proteins

• Amino acids can be linked together in different sequences, allowing for the creation of a wide variety of protein molecules.
• These proteins are tailored to meet the specific needs of the body, contributing to functions like muscle growth, skin maintenance, and enzymatic reactions.

Protein Synthesis

• The formation of proteins from amino acids occurs through a series of condensation reactions.
• The sequence of amino acids in a protein is determined by genetic information stored in the nucleus of the cell.

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Amino acids

Conclusion

• Amino acids are the fundamental units that makeup proteins, and they are essential for various biological processes in the body.
• The diversity in amino acid sequences allows for the creation of a wide array of proteins, each serving specific functions necessary for life.
• Essential amino acids, which the body cannot produce on its own, must be obtained from the diet to support protein synthesis and overall health.