What is a peptide bond?

A peptide bond is specifically a covalent bond formed between two amino acids during a process known as dehydration synthesis or condensation. In this reaction, the carboxyl group of one amino acid reacts with the amino group of another, releasing a molecule of water and resulting in the formation of the peptide bond. This bond is fundamental in the formation of proteins, linking amino acids in specific sequences dictated by genetic information.

Understanding peptide bonds is crucial in biochemistry because they determine the structure and function of proteins, which play various roles in biological systems, including catalysis, structural support, transport, and signaling. This bond is distinct from bonds found in lipids or nucleic acids, and unlike the weak attractions between proteins, the peptide bond is strong and stable, contributing to the integrity of protein structures.