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AAT Bioquest

What are basic amino acids?

Posted October 2, 2024


Answer

Basic amino acids are polar amino acids that carry a positive charge at neutral pH. This positive charge results from their basic side chains, which contain additional amine groups apart from the amine group directly bonded to the central carbon atom. capable of accepting protons. These amine groups are responsible for the basicity, as they readily bind to extra protons, giving the amino acid a net positive charge.

Additional resources

Biochemistry, Essential Amino Acids

Amino Acid Reference Chart