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VOL. 13, ISSUE 1 (2026)
Chemical composition of α-amino acids determined by IR spectroscopy
Authors
Ioana Stanciu
Abstract
α-Amino acids are the
fundamental structural units of proteins and are characterized by the presence
of a central carbon atom (α carbon) linked to four distinct groups: an amino
group (–NH2), a carboxyl group (–COOH), a hydrogen atom and a side
group specific to each amino acid (the R chain). This structure gives amino
acids amphoteric properties, allowing them to function as both acids and bases,
and determines their behavior in biological solutions. The R side group is what
differentiates the 20 proteinogenic amino acids, influencing their solubility,
polarity and reactivity. Most natural α-amino acids have the L configuration,
essential for the three-dimensional structure of proteins. Their common
structure, combined with the variability of the R chains, allows them to form
complex polypeptide chains through peptide bonds, underlying the functional
diversity of biological proteins.
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Pages:497-501
How to cite this article:
Ioana Stanciu "Chemical composition of α-amino acids determined by IR spectroscopy". International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research and Development, Vol 13, Issue 1, 2026, Pages 497-501
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