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Definition: How are amino acids classified?

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. They are classified based on various factors, including their chemical properties, structure, and the role they play in protein synthesis.

Classification based on chemical properties:

1. Nonpolar amino acids: These amino acids have hydrophobic side chains that do not interact with water. Examples include alanine, valine, and leucine.

2. Polar amino acids: These amino acids have hydrophilic side chains that interact with water. They can be further classified into:

• a) Neutral polar amino acids: Examples include serine, threonine, and tyrosine.
• b) Acidic amino acids: Examples include aspartic acid and glutamic acid.
• c) Basic amino acids: Examples include lysine, arginine, and histidine.

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3. Special amino acids: These amino acids have unique properties and functions. Examples include cysteine, which can form disulfide bonds, and glycine, which is the smallest amino acid.

Classification based on structure:

1. Standard amino acids: These amino acids have a common structure consisting of an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a side chain (R group) attached to a central carbon atom.

2. Non-standard amino acids: These amino acids have additional functional groups or modified structures. Examples include hydroxyproline, which contains a hydroxyl group, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has an additional carboxyl group.

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Classification based on protein synthesis:

1. Essential amino acids: These amino acids cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained from dietary sources. Examples include phenylalanine, leucine, and tryptophan.

2. Non-essential amino acids: These amino acids can be synthesized by the human body. Examples include alanine, glutamine, and proline.

3. Conditionally essential amino acids: These amino acids are normally non-essential but become essential under certain conditions, such as during illness or stress. Examples include arginine and cysteine.

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Understanding the classification of amino acids is crucial in studying protein structure, function, and the role of amino acids in various biological processes.

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