α-Amino acids, zwitterions, peptide bonds and protein structure

What this note covers

1. The generalised structure of an α-amino acid
2. Zwitterions and acid-base behaviour
3. Condensation to form peptide bonds
4. Primary structure: the sequence
5. Secondary structure: α-helix and β-pleated sheet
6. Tertiary structure and side-chain interactions
7. Structure and function: the Protein Data Bank
8. How amino acids and proteins are examined

8 sections · 12 key terms & formulas · 6 common mistakes