What are the basic building blocks of proteins?

The basic building blocks of proteins are amino acids. Each protein is made up of a unique sequence of amino acids linked together by peptide bonds. There are 20 different amino acids that can combine in various sequences to form a vast array of proteins, each with specific functions within the body.

Amino acids contain an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a unique side chain (R group) that determines the properties of each amino acid. When amino acids link together through dehydration synthesis to form peptides and ultimately proteins, they undergo folding and structural changes that are critical for their specific biological functions.

In contrast, nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA, fatty acids make up lipids, and sugars are the building blocks of carbohydrates. Each of these molecules serves different roles in biological systems, which solidifies the understanding that amino acids are specifically responsible for protein structure and function.