Amino Acids

• elements present: C,H,O,N

• monomers of proteins

• linked by peptide bonds

• Directionality

  • Amine group always on left and carboxyl group is always on right
  • bond formed between carboxyl of first amino acid and amine group of second amino acid
  • different directionality creates a completely different protein

• 20 different, naturally occurring amino acids: Alanine, Arginine, Asparagine, Aspartic Acid, Cysteine, Glutamic Acid, Glutamine, Glycine, Histidine, Hydroxyproline, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Pyroglutamatic Acid, Serine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Tyrosine, Valine

  • you do need to remember these

  Biological properties of Amino Acids

  • neurotransmitters, buffers, supplements to reverse/heal infections and disorders
  • It would be very beneficial if you learn the properties and locations where all of these amino acids are used, but unfortunately, I will not include it here. You have to research it yourself.

• Components: Amino group, Carboxyl group, hydrogen atom, central carbon atom, R-Group

  • R-Group gives the amino acids their different properties and identities

  

Functions

• Variety:
  • enzymes (catalysts)
  • structural support
  • transport
  • signal receptors- neurotransmitters
  • cell locomotion
  • protection against disease (antibodies)
  • hormones
  • storage
• Just like any molecule, shape is crucial to the function of a protein. If not folded correctly, the protein will malfunction or function differently
  • Chaperones: protein molecules that help ensure proper folding of protein
  • *Denaturation: protein loses its shape an functionality
    • causes: heat, change in pH and salinity

Levels of Protein Structure

Primary

• a sequence of amino acids
• mRNA dictates the specific order
• the specific order influences the folding due to the different properties of each type of amino acid due to their interaction with each other and the environment

Secondary

• Alpha Helix: coiled shape
• Beta Pleated Sheets: folded accordion style
• due to hydrogen bonds, not R-Group interactions

Tertiary