Building Blocks of Proteins

-Amino Group (NH2) and Carboxyl Group (-COOH) on a central Carbon

-Similar Structure with an R Group

COOH

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H2N- C -H

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R

All LIVING SYSTEMS produce ALPHA-Amino Acids

-The Carbon ATOM is bonded to COOH is the Alpha Carbon, so if the AMINE is also attached it is an ALPHA AMINO ACID!!-Entonimers – stereoisomers… mirror images-Body uses L-Form ONlY… Amine residue on LEFT.D-Drugs are NON-EFFECTIVE to use