The Major Functional Groups in an Amino Acid

Forensic Chemistry > 3. Because proteins are a major structural and metabolic component of all living organisms, the analysis of protein samples can be useful in forensic chemistry > The Major Functional Groups in an Amino Acid >

Identify the major functional groups in an amino acid

• There are 20 standard amino acids in proteins
• Among the standard amino acids, 8 are essential (cannot be synthesized in the body and must be supplied on diet) for adults while 10  for children (includes histidine  and  arginine)
• The L-enantiomer is the naturally occurring form
• The  major functional groups in amino acids include:
  1. α-amino group – basic (alkaline) group
  2. α-carboxylic group – acidic group

Note: The side chain part of amino acid may contain the above-mentioned functional group or other functional group