Which Amino Acids are Most Important in Catalysis?
While all amino acids can play a role in catalysis, certain ones are particularly important due to their reactive side chains:
- Histidine: Often acts as a proton donor or acceptor due to its imidazole side chain. - Serine: Frequently involved in nucleophilic attacks in serine proteases. - Aspartic acid and Glutamic acid: Commonly participate in acid-base catalysis. - Cysteine: Contains a thiol group that can form covalent bonds with substrates.
