Your body can also use amino acids for energy when you lack carbs and fats. The amino acid sequence of a protein is determined by the information found in the cellular genetic code. This class of amino acids includes serine, threonine, cysteine, asparagine, and glutamine. Email . Amino acids function in a multitude of ways. Recent years have shown that amino acids are not only building blocks and cell signaling molecules but also gene expression and protein phosphorylation cascade regulators. While some amino acids only make proteins, others fill a variety of roles, from supporting metabolism to protecting your heart. By Kevin Beck. The "R" group varies among amino acids and determines the differences between these protein monomers. In addition, some amino acids … 20-Histidine . We also know they are precursors for hormones and nitrogenous substances and have unprecedented biological importance. Another function of this amino acid is to keep the heart strong and healthy. All amino acids have the alpha carbon bonded to a hydrogen atom, carboxyl group, and amino group. Print . Amino acids are one of the four main macromolecules of life, the others being carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids.

Amino Acids Function. The 20 naturally occurring amino acids are found in all living things, from bacteria to humans.
They serve primarily as the monomeric units of proteins. It also works together with vitamin C to protect the skin. Amino acids build proteins, and proteins are life-sustaining macronutrients. Yet simply calling amino acids the building blocks of protein doesn't do justice to their value. Tweet .

Updated March 25, 2019. Amino Acids: Function, Structure, Types. Polar, Uncharged amino acids: The R groups of these amino acids are more soluble in water, or more hydrophilic, than those of the nonpolar amino acids, because they contain functional groups that form hydrogen bonds with water. Share . For this reason, it is called semi-essential, since it is only required in special circumstances. This amino acid is essential in some stages of human development, for example: during childhood.