The N-terminus and C-terminus of a protein are the two ends of the protein chain. The N-terminus is the starting end of the protein, while the C-terminus is the ending end. Structurally, the N-terminus typically has a free amino group, while the C-terminus has a free carboxyl group. Functionally, the N-terminus often plays a role in targeting the protein to specific locations within the cell, while the C-terminus can be involved in protein-protein interactions and signaling pathways.