What are amino acids in relation to proteins?

Amino acids play a crucial role in the structure and function of proteins, serving as their fundamental building blocks. Each protein consists of one or more chains of amino acids, which are linked together by peptide bonds. The sequence and arrangement of these amino acids determine the protein's unique structure and, consequently, its specific function in biological processes.

Proteins are involved in a variety of essential functions, including catalyzing biochemical reactions, providing structural support, facilitating communication between cells, and participating in the immune response. Therefore, understanding that amino acids are indeed the building blocks of proteins helps to grasp the foundational principles of biochemistry and molecular biology.