Proteins are the functional molecules of the body, but I would not conflate the term amino acid with the generic idea of an acid. An amino acid has three groups: a basic amine group, an acidic carboxylic acid group, and then a functional ‘R’ group that has variable acidity. The concept of pKa is important here; the ionizable (or ability to lose/gain a proton) groups of proteins are based on pH, and this in turn confers a proteins function and interaction with other molecules.
We run slightly alkaline because gas exchange (O2 to CO2) is a tightly regulated process to ensure proper cellular function. Dissolved CO2 is acidic, and our blood (and the organs bathed in blood) needs to stay slightly basic to avoid CO2 build up.
It’s also important to note there are proton gradients in our cells, and these proton gradients drive functions like chemiosmosis (a crucial step in cellular respiration). Organelles like lysosomes are also highly acidic to facilitate breakdown of molecules.
Tldr: amino acids are not acidic just because they have acid in the name, slightly basic blood helps with gas exchange, and you can find membrane-bound structures that are highly acidic within cells.
natashieh t1_j9gn9z4 wrote
Reply to Why are we not acidic? by stronkreddituser
Proteins are the functional molecules of the body, but I would not conflate the term amino acid with the generic idea of an acid. An amino acid has three groups: a basic amine group, an acidic carboxylic acid group, and then a functional ‘R’ group that has variable acidity. The concept of pKa is important here; the ionizable (or ability to lose/gain a proton) groups of proteins are based on pH, and this in turn confers a proteins function and interaction with other molecules.
We run slightly alkaline because gas exchange (O2 to CO2) is a tightly regulated process to ensure proper cellular function. Dissolved CO2 is acidic, and our blood (and the organs bathed in blood) needs to stay slightly basic to avoid CO2 build up.
It’s also important to note there are proton gradients in our cells, and these proton gradients drive functions like chemiosmosis (a crucial step in cellular respiration). Organelles like lysosomes are also highly acidic to facilitate breakdown of molecules.
Tldr: amino acids are not acidic just because they have acid in the name, slightly basic blood helps with gas exchange, and you can find membrane-bound structures that are highly acidic within cells.