Amino Acids : Biochemistry And Nutrition -

Each of the 20 proteinogenic amino acids shares a common core structure: a central alpha-carbon atom bonded to an amino group ( ), a carboxyl group ( ), a hydrogen atom, and a unique (side chain).

From a nutritional standpoint, amino acids are categorized based on the body's ability to synthesize them: Amino acids : biochemistry and nutrition

: This variable side chain determines the specific chemical properties of each amino acid—such as its size, charge, and solubility—which ultimately dictates how a protein folds and functions. Each of the 20 proteinogenic amino acids shares

: They link together through peptide bonds to form long chains called polypeptides, which then fold into complex 3D structures to become functional proteins. Nutritional Classification a carboxyl group ( )