Proteins have a wide range of functions in living things due to their diverse structures. They are polymers made from 20 different amino acid monomers connected by peptide bonds. There are four main classes of proteins that serve structural, storage, catalytic and transport functions which are essential for cells and organisms. Proteins make up over 50% of the dry mass of most cells and carry out critical roles such as movement, cell signaling, immune defense and facilitating chemical reactions.