logo
AAT Bioquest

What are acidic side chains?

Posted May 17, 2024


Answer

Acidic side chains refer to the amino acid residues in proteins that contain carboxylic acid functional groups. These side chains are capable of donating protons, making them acidic in nature. The two common amino acids with acidic side chains are aspartic acid and glutamic acid. 

Additional resources

Amino Acids, the Henderson-Hasselbalch Equation, and Isoelectric Points

Weak Acid pH Calculator

Henderson-Hasselbalch Acid Calculator