Question

What are $\alpha$-amino acids? Discuss the classification of $\alpha$-amino acids.

Answer 1

In some amino acids, the amine group is attached to the β or γ-carbon, and these are therefore referred to as beta or gamma amino acids. Amino acids are usually classified by the properties of their side chain into four groups.

Amino acids are carboxylic acid in which α-carbon is attached to the amino group as well as it is attached to R- (alkyl) group. They are the basic unit of proteins.

I. Classification on the basis of R-group

II. Classification on the basis of nutrition

III. Classification on the basis of Catabolism