What are the building blocks of tissues?

The correct answer highlights the fundamental relationship between proteins and amino acids. Proteins serve as essential macromolecules composed of long chains of amino acids. These amino acids are linked together through peptide bonds in a specific sequence, determined by the genetic code. This sequence ultimately dictates the structure and function of the protein.

In the context of tissues, proteins are crucial as they contribute to the composition and function of various cellular structures, including muscle, skin, and connective tissues. Each type of tissue in the body has specific proteins that enable it to perform its particular role, such as collagen in connective tissue or keratin in the skin.

Understanding this hierarchy is vital for grasping how tissues are formed and how they function. While peptides and amino acids are part of the conversation—since peptides are short chains of amino acids—the key takeaway here is that proteins are the major building blocks of tissues, synthesized from amino acids. This reinforces the importance of proteins in biological systems, particularly regarding tissue structure and integrity.