2.1.2k and l- Amino acids Flashcards
1
Q
What is the general structure of amino acids?
A
amino acids contain an amino group (basic), a carboxyl group (acidic) and an R group
2
Q
Which elements are found in all amino acids?
A
- carbon
- hydrogen
- nitrogen
- oxygen
3
Q
What are the hydrophobic R groups?
A
- phenylalanine (aromatic)
- alanine
4
Q
What are the hydrophilic R groups?
A
- cysteine
- serine
5
Q
How does a dipeptide form?
A
- carboxyl group of one amino acid reacts with amino group of second amino acid and joins through peptide linkage
- it also forms a water molecule, therefore it is a condensation reaction
- 2 amino acids ——-> dipeptide + water
6
Q
What happens when you split a dipeptide?
A
- consumes one water molecule- therefore it is a hydrolysis reaction
- dipeptide + water ———> 2 amino acids
7
Q
What is a tripeptide?
A
3 amino acids joined together
8
Q
What is a oligopeptide?
A
a short chain of a few amino acids
9
Q
What is a polypeptide?
A
a chain of many amino acids
10
Q
What is Phenylketonuria /
Maple Syrup Urine Disease?
A
- patients lack the enzyme
phenylalanine hydroxylase – needed
to dispose of the amino acid phenylalanine properly - penylalanine rapidly builds up in the blood stream
- converted to unusual metabolites which give the patient’s urine a characteristic smell
- can cause severe brain damage
11
Q
What is the treatment for Phenylketonuria/
Maple Syrup Urine Disease?
A
- a diet low in phelylalanine: no meat, fish, poultry, eggs, cheese, milk, beans, or peas
