An amino acid that is unique in having its side chain cyclically bonded to the amino group, creating a rigid ring structure. It plays important roles in protein structure and collagen formation.
From German 'Prolin,' coined in 1901 from 'Pyrrolidin' (pyrrolidine) and the suffix '-in' for amino acids. The name reflects its chemical structure containing a pyrrolidine ring.
Proline is the 'rule-breaker' among amino acids because its ring structure makes proteins bend and kink at proline residues, acting like molecular hinges. It's especially abundant in collagen, which is why collagen-rich foods like bone broth are said to be good for skin.
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