Chapter 20, Problem 20.85AP

(a)

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The questions based on the compound homocysteine are to be answered.

Concept introduction: Homocysteine is an amino acid. Amino acid is the compound which comprises amino $\left(-{\text{NH}}_{\text{2}}\right)$ group and carboxyl $\left(-\text{COOH}\right)$ functional group.

This compound is formed during the process of metabolism of amino acids.

This is homologue of cysteine. Both cysteine and homocysteine are amino acids. Basically all proteins are made-up of amino acids. When proteins break down, the amount of one of the amino acids like homocysteine is increased. This causes blood clots or some other problems and as a consequence risk of heart attack also increases.

To determine: The structural differences between homocysteine and cysteine.

(b)

Interpretation Introduction

To determine: If the homocysteine molecule is chiral.