Amino Acids - GCSE Biology Definition

Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, which are essential molecules for life. Each amino acid contains an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a unique side chain that makes it different from others. In the human body, 20 different amino acids combine in various sequences to form proteins, each with specific functions. Some are called “essential” amino acids because the body cannot make them and they must be obtained through the diet. Understanding amino acids is important in GCSE Biology because they form the basis of protein structure and function, which is central to many biological processes such as enzyme activity and immune responses.