Summary
This section covers the fundamental chemistry of amino acids, peptides, and proteins. Key points include the structure and stereochemistry of ?–amino acids, the formation of zwitterions in aqueous solutions, and the importance of isoelectric points in protein behavior. Detailed methods for peptide synthesis (both in solution and via the Merrifield solid-phase method) and sequencing via Edman degradation highlight the interplay between chemical reactions and biological functionality. Enzyme mechanisms and protein structures are explained, stressing the critical role of molecular interactions, such as hydrogen bonding, hydrophobic effects, and the contribution of cofactors in stabilizing transition states.