What are the basic building blocks of proteins?

The fundamental building blocks of proteins are amino acids. Proteins are large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body. Each protein consists of one or more long chains of amino acids, which are linked together by peptide bonds in a specific sequence determined by the genetic code.

Amino acids contain an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a variable side chain that gives each amino acid its unique properties. There are 20 different amino acids that can combine in various sequences to create a vast array of proteins, each with distinct structures and functions. This versatility allows proteins to serve various roles, including structural support, transportation of molecules, catalyzing biochemical reactions, and regulating cellular processes.

The other options refer to different types of macromolecules in the body: sugars are the basic units of carbohydrates, nucleotides are the building blocks of nucleic acids (like DNA and RNA), and fatty acids are key components of lipids. However, none of these serve as the building blocks of proteins.