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
: 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 Each of the 20 proteinogenic amino acids shares
: 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. a carboxyl group ( )