An amino acid is an organic molecule that serves as a building block of proteins and also participates in many other biological processes.
Proteins are made by linking amino acids together in specific sequences. The body uses amino acids to build and repair tissues, produce enzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters, and other molecules.
Humans need 20 standard amino acids to build proteins. Some can be produced by the body, while others must be obtained from food and are called essential amino acids.
QUICK FACT
Amino acids are not used only to make muscle; they contribute to many biological structures and processes.
COMMONLY CONFUSED WITH
- Protein: a larger molecule made from one or more chains of amino acids.
- Nucleotide: a building block of nucleic acids such as DNA and RNA.
SEE ALSO
