Chemistry for Physicians: Amino Acids and Proteins

In the human organism, proteins undertake multiple and vital functions. Structural proteins are found in each and every cellular compartment. Intracellularly, motor proteins power the energy-dependent transportation of vesicles. Signal proteins receive and transmit information. Transport and storage proteins bind, for example, oxygen, and carry it to a location where it is needed. Of equally great significance are enzyme proteins as, without these biocatalysts, a smooth and “frictionless” exchange of energy and nutrients would be practically impossible. This article illustrates the role of amino acids as building blocks in the structure of proteins, their chemical properties and also presents the ways in which amino acids fulfil their multiple duties.