What is the product of a condensation reaction between two amino acids, such as glycine and alanine?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the UCF BCH4024 Medical Biochemistry Exam 1. Study with multiple choice questions and detailed explanations on various key topics. Boost your confidence and ensure you're ready for your exam!

In a condensation reaction between two amino acids, such as glycine and alanine, the primary product formed is water (H2O). This type of reaction is characterized by the joining of two amino acids to create a peptide bond. During this process, the amino group (-NH2) of one amino acid reacts with the carboxyl group (-COOH) of the other, resulting in the release of a water molecule.

Specifically, the hydroxyl group (-OH) from the carboxyl group of one amino acid binds with a hydrogen atom from the amino group of the other, leading to the formation of water and a dipeptide, in this case, glycylalanine. This reaction is essential in the synthesis of proteins, as it allows for the formation of longer chains of amino acids through repeated condensation reactions.

The other options, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), ammonia (NH3), and methane (CH4), are not products of this type of reaction and do not participate in the formation of peptide bonds between amino acids. Each has distinct biochemical roles, but they do not arise as a result of the condensation process between amino acids.