What are proteins primarily made up of?

Proteins are primarily composed of amino acids, which are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. Each protein consists of long chains of amino acids that are linked together by peptide bonds, forming a unique sequence that ultimately determines the protein's structure and function.

Amino acids are essential for numerous biological processes, including enzyme activity, immune response, and cell signaling. There are 20 different amino acids that can combine in various sequences to create a vast array of proteins, each with its specific roles within the body.

In contrast, simple sugars are carbohydrate molecules that serve as a quick source of energy, while fatty acids are the building blocks of lipids, comprising fats and oils that provide long-term energy storage and insulation. Vitamins, on the other hand, are organic compounds required in small amounts for various metabolic processes but do not serve as the fundamental components of proteins. Therefore, the understanding that proteins are made up of amino acids is crucial for grasping their biological significance and function in nutrition and metabolism.