Q
how do proteins constructed from amino acids
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Proteins are vital macromolecules that perform numerous functions within cells. They are constructed from smaller units called amino acids. There are 20 standard amino acids, each with a unique side chain that influences the protein's final structure and function. Protein synthesis occurs in two primary stages: transcription and translation. During transcription, DNA's genetic code is copied into messenger RNA (mRNA) in the cell nucleus. This mRNA then travels to the ribosomes, the cellular sites of protein synthesis. Translation begins when the ribosome reads the mRNA sequence, which acts as a template. Transfer RNA (tRNA) molecules, each carrying a specific amino acid, match the codons on the mRNA. Amino acids are linked together by peptide bonds to form a polypeptide chain. The sequence of amino acids is determined by the order of codons in the mRNA, which is dictated by the DNA sequence. As the chain grows, it folds into a specific three-dimensional shape, guided by interactions between the amino acids. This tertiary structure is crucial for the protein's function. Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation or glycosylation, can further refine the protein's structure and activity.
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