- #1
Kglocc
- 44
- 0
Any known reasons, research, or theories about why earthly amino-acids exist in the L-configuration and have not been found in D-configuration naturally??
Moogie said:In other words, proteins made of L-amino acids always fold the same way whereas proteins made from a mixture of L and D amino acids would not have the same structure.
The L-configuration of amino acids is due to the way they are synthesized by living organisms. Amino acids are produced from their corresponding alpha-keto acids, and the enzymes responsible for this conversion only produce L-amino acids. This is a result of the specific active site of the enzyme that can only accommodate the L-form of the amino acid.
Yes, amino acids can exist in both L- and D- configurations. D-amino acids are not commonly found in living organisms, but they can be synthesized in a laboratory. However, they are not used in protein synthesis and do not have the same biological functions as L-amino acids.
Amino acid stereochemistry is important because it determines the overall shape and structure of proteins. The L-configuration of amino acids allows for the formation of stable and functional proteins, which are essential for many biological processes in living organisms.
No, not all amino acids in proteins are in the L-configuration. Some amino acids, such as glycine, do not have a chiral center and therefore do not have a specific configuration. Additionally, some non-proteinogenic amino acids, such as D-amino acids, can be incorporated into proteins in small amounts, but they are not as common as L-amino acids.
Yes, amino acid stereochemistry can significantly impact the function of proteins. The specific arrangement of L-amino acids in a protein determines its overall shape, which is crucial for its function. A change in the stereochemistry of even a single amino acid can result in a misfolded protein with impaired function.