Proteins 1: Amino acids 2.2.8 Flashcards
What are 3 functions of proteins?
- Form structural components in animals e.g. muscles.
- Work as enzymes, hormones, and antibodies
- Used in facilitated diffusion and transport across the membrane.
What is a protein?
A large polymer made up of large chains of amino acids.
How many amino acids are proteinogenic?
20 out of 500
What are the elements found in an amino acid?
Carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen.
Some contain sulfur
What is the molecular structure of an amino acid?
An amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH) at each end, and an R group in the middle.
What is the R group
The R group determines the characteristics (size, polarity, pH) for each amino acid. E.g. the R group in glycine is H, whereas in cysteine its CH3S.
How are amino acids joined together?
By peptide bonds (covalent), and is made through a condensation reaction / broken through a hydrolysis reaction.
What is the role of enzymes during the bonding of amino acids?
They catalyse the condensation and hydrolysis reactions. For example, protease enzymes in the intestines break down peptide bonds during digestion.
What are two amino acids bonded together known as?
Dipeptide.
What is the name for a long chain of amino acids?
Polypeptide.
