Amino acid side chains, also known as R groups, determine the chemical properties and reactivity of amino acids, influencing protein structure and function. These side chains can be polar, non-polar, acidic, or basic, affecting how proteins fold and interact with other molecules.

Amino Acid Side Chains

R groups

Chemical properties describe the potential of a substance to undergo chemical changes or reactions due to its composition. These properties are intrinsic to the substance and determine its behavior in chemical processes, influencing how it interacts with other substances.

Chemical Properties

Reactivity of amino acids

Protein structure is the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms within a protein molecule, which determines its function and interaction with other molecules. Understanding protein structure is crucial for insights into biological processes and the development of pharmaceuticals.

Protein Structure

Proteins are essential biomolecules that perform a wide array of functions in biological systems, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, providing structural support, and regulating cellular processes. Their function is determined by their three-dimensional structure, which is encoded by the sequence of amino acids and influenced by the cellular environment.

Concepts

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