This class-tested textbook gives an overview of the structure and functions of proteins and explains how amino acids form a defined structural entity with specific properties. The authors also introduce modern methods for purification and separation of proteins as well as different techniques for analyzing their structural and functional properties. A separate part of the book is devoted to enzymes and kinetics of enzymatic reactions. New in the second edition: Since the development of computing techniques has evolved considerably during the last few years, the text benefits from the addition of a chapter on the use of computing, particularly on the use of Alpha Fold in protein research. This AI-based software can determine the protein structures from the amino acid sequence with excellent reliability. Also included a discussion on the use of molecular dynamicsand a real life example of protein purification.