The building blocks of proteins are amino acids. There are 20 different standard amino acids, which combine in various sequences to form a vast array of proteins, each with unique functions. Amino acids contain an amine group, a carboxyl group, and a side chain that determines their specific characteristics. The sequence and arrangement of these amino acids dictate how a protein folds and functions, influencing everything from muscle repair to enzymatic reactions within cells. This diversity in protein structure and function is crucial for life, supporting growth, repair, and the regulation of numerous biological processes.