side chain
Another term for R-group; variable group of an amino acid that differs with each amino acid and determines the unique characteristics of a particular AA
In biochemistry, a side chain refers to a part of an amino acid molecule that protrudes from the main chain, or backbone, of the amino acid. The side chain is also known as the R-group and it determines the specific characteristics of the amino acid.
There are 20 different amino acids that can be found in proteins and each of them has a different side chain. For example, amino acids with hydrophobic side chains, such as leucine and valine, tend to be found buried inside proteins, away from water molecules, while amino acids with polar side chains, such as serine and threonine, tend to be found on the surface of proteins, where they can interact with water molecules.
The side chains of amino acids also play a crucial role in determining the folding and structure of proteins. The interactions between different side chains, such as hydrogen bonding and hydrophobic interactions, help to stabilize the folding of proteins into their functional three-dimensional structures.
In addition to their role in protein structure, the side chains of amino acids can also be modified through post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation or glycosylation, which can alter the function of proteins. Overall, the side chains of amino acids are important for understanding the properties and functions of proteins in biological systems.
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