JONALYN B. NOLANBSBA-LM

20Amino acid1. Alanine known to be one of the primary amino acids discovered and synthesized long

before its isolation from natural sources. Back in 1850, it was synthesized by Adolph Strecker from acetaldehyde through its condensation using ammonia and hydrogen cyanide. Only in a quarter of a century, Alanine was discovered in natural sources - in proteins.

USES

Alanine is basically a non-essential amino acid sometimes found in high levels in its free state in human plasma.

This amino acid is synthesized by reductive amination of pyruvate, and participates in sugar and acid metabolism. It is also known for increasing immunity and providing energy for brain and central nervous system, let alone the muscle tissue. In addition, Alanine plays a central role in glucose-Alanine cycle taking place between tissues and liver.

In a nutshell,it helps your body convert the simple sugar called glucose into energy you need, while eliminating excess toxins from your liver. As you know, amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, thus becoming a key to building muscles, and Alanine is also there in the list, helping protect cells from being damaged during intense physical activity. Then, due to the fact that fluid in the prostate gland contains this amino acid, the suggestions were made that Alanine may help treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is the condition in which the prostate enlarges.

Alanine is a non-essential amino acid, i.e. a healthy body can produce it for its own needs. However, it may become an essential amino acid (which means you would need a dietary supplementation) if your body is unable to manufacture it for some reasons. In order to avoid this deficiency, individuals with low-protein diets or eating disorders, as well as those who suffer from liver disease or diabetes, may need to take supplements of this amino acid. To be healthy, human body requires Alanine to process the B vitamin.

Naturally, you are able to get this amino acid from such sources as meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, and fish. Vegetarians are recommended to eat protein-rich plant foods - for example, avocado, as they also supply Alanine.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Aminopropanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Ala. One-letter code - AMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 89.09318 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C3H7NO2Canonical SMILES: CC(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: QNAYBMKLOCPYGJ-SNQCPAJUDICAS Number: 56-41-7MDL Number: MFCD00064410Melting point: 314-316 °CSolubility in water: 166.5 g/1 L (25 °C); pKa - 2,34; pKb - 9,69Other names: L-alpha-Alanine; (S)-Alanine; L-2-Aminopropionic acid; (S)-2-Aminopropionic acid; L-α-Aminopropionic acid

2.Arginine Arginine was discovered by Ernst Schulze, a Swiss chemist who first isolated it from

a lupine seedling extract back in 1886. Later on, in 1895, this amino acid was recognized as a component of casein and appeared to be widely distributed in various food and feed.

USES

it helps healing wounds, release hormones, and remove ammonia from your body. This amino acid is proved to be a precursor of nitric oxide, which, as you know, causes a blood vessel relaxation.

through the nitric oxide (NO) it becomes a mediator in different biological systems.

Arginine is an intermediate in the urea cycle, cleaved into ornithine and urea.

Arginine may be useful under many body conditions, including colds, high blood pressure, migraines, congestive heart failure, and even erectile dysfunction, male infertility and sexual dysfunction in women.

It boost up the immune system and to improve the athletic performance - this amino acid is known for aiding in bodybuilding. The others use it to faster recover after surgery.

it is effective for managing the inflammation of the bladder. This amino acid is also known to be effective in relieving leg cramping and weakness, both conditions caused by blocked arteries (intermittent claudication). Besides, Arginine can improve kidney function in kidney transplant patients who take cyclosporine.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-5-(diaminomethylideneamino)pentanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Arg. One-letter code - RMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 174.20096 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C6H14N4O2

Canonical SMILES: C(CC(C(=O)O)N)CN=C(N)NIsomeric SMILES: C(C[C@@H](C(=O)O)N)CN=C(N)NInChIKey Identifier: ODKSFYDXXFIFQN-SMLZDNMQDICAS Number: 74-79-3MDL Number: MFCD00002635Melting point: 223 °CSolubility in water: 148,7 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 2,17; pKb - 9,04Other names: (S)-2-Amino-5-guanidinopentanoic acid; L-(+)-Arginine; S-(+)-Arginine

3. Asparagine Asparagine is known worldwide as the first amino acid that was isolated from its

natural source. Back in 1806, Asparagine was isolated from asparagus juice by Pierre Jean Robiquet and Louis-Nicolas Vauquelin.

USES

Asparagine is also known for its key role in the biosynthesis of glycoproteins. Human nervous system also needs this amino acid to be able to maintain an equilibrium.

It increases the resistance to fatigue and improves the smooth functioning of the liver. So, Asparagine benefits work best in the field of nervine health and liver protection.

This amino acid is actually an essential component of proteins involved in signaling, neuronal development and transmission across nerve endings. It is also necessary for transformation of amino acid from one form to another.

The most common typical dietary sources of this amino acid include beef, chicken, dairy products, seafood, and eggs. As for vegetarians, they may find helpful to consume asparagus, soy, and whole grains to get more amino acid from them.

In addition, among the main benefits of Asparagine you can find the facts that it may help in metabolizing ammonia in the human body and enable proper functioning of the liver, as well as it enables a robust system resistant to fatigue.

People experiencing a deficiency of Asparagine may suffer from poor metabolism and show inability to manufacture and excrete urea, which is waste product of excess dietary protein. Such people thus may reveal symptoms like depression, confusion, and headaches.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2,4-Diamino-4-oxobutanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Asn. One-letter code - NMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 132.11792 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C4H8N2O3Canonical SMILES: C(C(C(=O)O)N)C(=O)NIsomeric SMILES: C([C@@H](C(=O)O)N)C(=O)N

InChIKey Identifier: DCXYFEDJOCDNAF-VYAUFGAVDTCAS Number: 70-47-3MDL Number: MFCD00064401Melting point: 235 °CSolubility in water: 20 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 2,02; pKb - 8,80Other names: (S)-2-Aminosuccinic acid 4-amide; alpha-Aminosuccinamic acid; L-Aspartic acid 4-amide; (2S)-2-Amino-3-carbamoyl-propanoic acid

4. Aspartic Acid In 1868, Aspartic acid was isolated from legume in plant seeds and is apparently

known as an amino acid obtained as a product of the hydrolysis of proteins. 

USES

This amino acid is non-essential and widely distributed in proteins, though it is proved to play a major role in the energy cycle of your body. Besides, Aspartic acid also participates in the ornithine cycle, in transamination reactions, as well as in the formation of pyrimidines, purines, carnosine, and anserine.

This amino acid is necessary for stamina, brain and neural health. Aspartic acid was found to be very important in the functioning of RNA and DNA, as well as in the production of immunoglobulin and antibody synthesis.

promote a robust metabolism

it is used to treat depression and fatigue. This amino acid plays a key role in the citric acid cycle (also known as Krebs cycle), within which a number of other amino acids and biochemicals are formed.

If you want your mind sharp, you will look for Aspartic acid, because it’s responsible for keeping your mind in that state by increasing concentrations of NADH in the brain. This, in turn, is believed to boost up the production of chemicals necessary for proper mental functioning.

Finally, this amino acid is recognized as an important element removing excess toxins from the cells, especially ammonia, that damages human liver, brain, and nervous system.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Aminobutanedioic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Asp. One-letter code - DMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 133.10268 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C4H7NO4Canonical SMILES: C(C(C(=O)O)N)C(=O)OIsomeric SMILES: C([C@@H](C(=O)O)N)C(=O)OInChIKey Identifier: CKLJMWTZIZZHCS-WHFJSZMODFCAS Number: 56-84-8MDL Number: MFCD00002616

Melting point: 270 °CSolubility in water: 5,0 g/L (25 °C); pKa - 1,88; pKb - 9,60Other names: (S)-Aminobutanedioic acid; L-Aminosuccinic acid; Asparagic acid; L-Asparagic acid; Asparaginic acid; L-Asparaginic acid; Aspartic acid; (L)-Aspartic acid; (S)-Aspartic acid; H-Asp-OH

5. Cysteine Cysteine is known as a sulphur-containing non-essential amino acid. Being a key

constituent of glutathione, this amino acid supports a lot of vital physiological functions. For example, glutathione, made from Cysteine, Glutamic acid, and Glycine, can be found in all tissues of the human body. In the meantime, the antioxidant activity of this component is attributed particularly to the presence of Cysteine in the compound.

USES

it provides resistance to the body against all harmful effects, because it is responsible for building up white blood-cell activity.it is also necessary for the proper functioning of the skin and helps your body recover from surgery.

Cysteine is also used to produce Glutathione and Taurine.

If, for some reasons, your body is unable to produce this amino acid, you can find it in lots of high-protein foods like pork, chicken, eggs, milk, and cottage cheese. Vegetarians are recommended to pay more attention to eating garlic, granola and onions.

it is essential for the detoxification and for the formation of skin

it participates in the recovery of hair and nail tissue. Then, Cysteine is used in manufacturing antioxidants and in protecting your brain and liver from damage made by alcohol and drugs consumption and even by a cigarette smoke.

this amino acid helps protect against harmful toxins and damages caused by radiation.

reducing the effects of aging on the human body. it also helps promote building muscles, healing of severe burns, and fat burning. Cysteine also encourages the activity of white blood cells.

effectiveness in treating bronchitis, angina and acute respiratory distress, and the ability to help maintain optimal health and improve immune system functioning.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2R)-2-amino-3-sulfanylpropanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Cys. One-letter code - CMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 121.15818 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C3H7NO2S

Canonical SMILES: C(C(C(=O)O)N)SIsomeric SMILES: C([C@@H](C(=O)O)N)SInChIKey Identifier: XUJNEKJLAYXESH-SNQCPAJUDKCAS Number: 52-90-4MDL Number: MFCD00064306Melting point: 220 °CSolubility in water: 280 g/L (25 °C); pKa - 1,96; pKb - 10,28IR and H1 NMR spectrum: n/aMSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): n/aOther names: (R)-2-Amino-3-mercaptopropionic acid; beta-Mercaptoalanine; Thioserine; CySH; 3-Mercapto-L-alanine

6. Glutamic Acid Glutamic acid is one of the most common non-essential amino acids. German

chemist Karl Ritthausen first isolated Glutamic acid from the wheat gluten in 1866, but its chemical structure was identified only in 1890.

USES

Glutamic acid is recognized as a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the human brain and in the spinal cord, transformted into Glutamine or Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid. This amino acid is necessary for proper cell functioning, but is considered as a non-essential amino acid, because human body is able to produce it.

this amino acid appears to support brain function. In other words, Glutamic acid turned out to be human brain's primary 'food'. When it reaches the brain, it utilizes all excess ammonia, which is a toxic waste product of metabolism, by transforming it into the amino acid called Glutamine. In fact, this conversion is the only way our brain employs in order to be detoxified, indicating that not only is Glutamine not toxic, but it also has some essential antioxidant properties.

also called 'chemical messenger', it has been shown to help improve intelligence.

it is able to enhance a clarity of thinking, mental alertness, and mood. That is why this amino acid has been used to help treat Parkinson's, fatigue, mental retardation, schizophrenia, muscular dystrophy, and alcoholism.

it is believed to help shuttle potassium (an important mineral) across the blood-brain barrier and right into the spinal fluid.

Glutamic acid is also known for its ability to detoxify muscle cells. For example, when intense exercise leads to increasing levels of ammonia in muscle cells (which slows down a recovery), just as in the brain, this amino acid attaches itself to ammonia in order to form Glutamine.

Glutamic acid is acting as an intermediary in the Kreb's cycle and is important for the carbohydrate metabolism.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Aminopentanedioic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Glu. One-letter code - EMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 147.12926 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C5H9NO4Canonical SMILES: C(CC(=O)O)C(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C(CC(=O)O)[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: WHUUTDBJXJRKMK-IQTGVIGADKCAS Number: 56-86-0MDL Number: MFCD00002634Melting point: 205 °CSolubility in water: 7,5 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 2,19; pKb - 9,67Other names: alpha-Aminoglutaric acid; L-2-Aminoglutaric acid; 1-Aminopropane-1,3-dicarboxylic acid; Glusate; Glutacid; alpha-Glutamic acid; L-Glutaminic acid; Glutaminol; Glutaton; (S)-2-Aminopentanedioic acid

7. Glutamine Glutamine was first discovered by Schulze in 1883, who managed to isolate it from

the beet juice. Later on, it turned out that glutamine can also be found in abundance in a wheat gliadin. Finally, in 1935, the synthesis of glutamine from ammonium and glutamate was explained and described by Krebs, who used the guinea pig and the rat kidney in his research.

USES

Glutamine, also known as L-Glutamine, seems to be the most active amino acid involved in lots of metabolic processes.

A human body utilizes this amino acid at high rates for rapidly dividing cells, like leucocytes, in order to supply them with an energy, i.e., to create the best conditions for the nucleotide biosynthesis. In other words, glutamine is considered to be vital for the proper immune function.

it helps removing excess ammonia, which is a usual waste product in the human body. This amino acid also turned out to be important for the digestion and for the normal brain function. Glutamine aids to protect the lining of the gastrointestinal tract and helps athletes to keep fit.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2,5-Diamino-5-oxopentanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Gln. One-letter code - QMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 146.1445 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C5H10N2O3Canonical SMILES: C(CC(=O)N)C(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C(CC(=O)N)[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: ZDXPYRJPNDTMRX-ISQTXBHGDWCAS Number: 56-85-9MDL Number: MFCD00008044

Melting point: 185 °CSolubility in water: 35 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 2,17; pKb - 9,13Other names: L-Glutamic acid 5-amide; 2-Aminoglutaramic acid; L-2-Aminoglutaramidic acid; Glutamic acid amide; Glutamic acid 5-amide; gamma-Glutamine; Levoglutamid; Levoglutamide

8.Glycine Henri Braconnot discovered Glycine in 1820 that became the first instance in

which a pure amino acid was received from a protein (gelatin) by acidic hydrolysis.

USES

it helps regulate the synthesis of the bile acid utilized to help you digest fats. Glycine also plays a role as an inhibitory neurotransmitter in your central nervous system, particularly in the spinal cord, in the brainstem, and in the retina. This amino acid is essential for the development and quality of human skeletal muscles, tissues, and structural integrity, as well as for the synthesis of nucleic acids.

this one is used to help create muscle tissues and convert glucose into energy. In addition, it is also vital for maintaining healthy central nervous and digestive systems. The latest researches showed that it can also provide protection against some types of cancer through antioxidants.

Glycine is utilized in human body to help construct normal DNA and RNA strands, which are basically a genetic material necessary for proper cellular function and formation.

This amino acid helps prevent the breakdown of muscles, because it can boost your body's levels of creatine - a compound helping build muscle mass. Aside from the muscles, high concentrations of this amino acid are also found in the skin and other connective tissues. For example, nearly one third of a collagen, which is responsible for keeping the skin and connective tissues firm and flexible, consists of Glycine.

without this amino acid your body would not be able to repair damaged tissues.

it is able to help inhibit the neurotransmitters causing seizure activity, hyperactivity, as well as manic (bipolar) depression. Moreover, Glycine can be converted to another neurotransmitter to help manage schizophrenia. You can find Glycine in various high-protein foods like beans, fish, meat, milk, and cheese.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: 2-Aminoacetic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Gly. One-letter code - GMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 75.0666 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C2H5NO2Canonical SMILES: C(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C(CC(=O)N)[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: DHMQDGOQFOQNFH-JLSKMEETCN

CAS Number: 56-40-6MDL Number: MFCD00008131Melting point: 233 °CSolubility in water: 25 g/L (25 °C); pKa - 2,34; pKb - 9,60IR and H1 NMR spectrum: n/aMSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): n/aOther names: Aminoethanoic acid; Glycocoll; Amino acetic acid

9.Histidine Histidine is amino acid that was discovered back in 1896 by Albrecht Kossel and

Sven Hedin – simultaneously but independently. The first researcher obtained Histidine by precipitation with mercuric chloride from the alkaline solution which contained the products of hydrolysis of the protamine – sturine. The second one isolated Histidine from the precipitate obtained by the base fraction from hydrolyzed protein being treated with silver nitrate and later with ammonia till the moment when a maximum precipitation occurred.

USES

to regulate and to utilize essential trace elements like iron, copper, molybdenum, zinc, and manganese. This amino acid is also essential in forming numerous metal-bearing enzymes and compounds, such as the antioxidant super oxide dismutase.

many toxic metals like mercury, lead, and cadmium, along with threatening excess of essential minerals like zinc and copper, usually stimulate the rapid formation of metallothionein inside the cells of your brain, liver, and kidneys to protect these cells.

Metallothionein needs Histidine to be formed, so people without a Histidine diet whose body is contaminated with heavy metals are subject to the body's depletion of adequate stores of this amino acid, thus causing mineral-enzyme deficiencies and dysregulations. This body condition is best recognized by dysfunction of Histidine-dependent compounds, coupled with low blood plasma concentration of it.

if you do not tolerate sulfur-bearing food, such as broccoli and garlic, and show the elevated blood plasma L-cysteine levels, it means that you suffer from inactivation of Histidine and of iron-dependent enzyme cysteine dioxygenase.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-3-(3H-imidazol-4-yl)propanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - His. One-letter code - HMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 155.15456 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C6H9N3O2Canonical SMILES: C1=C(NC=N1)CC(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C1=C(NC=N1)C[C@@H](C(=O)O)N

InChIKey Identifier: HNDVDQJCIGZPNO-IFJFHIPQDCCAS Number: 71-00-1MDL Number: MFCD00064315Melting point: 285 °CSolubility in water: 41.6 g/1 L (25 °C); pKa - 1,82; pKb - 9,17Other names: (S)-4-(2-Amino-2-carboxyethyl)imidazole ; (S)-alpha-Amino-1H-imidazole-4-propanoic acid; L-2-Amino-3-(4-imidazolyl)propionic acid; (2S)-2-azaniumyl-3-(3H-imidazol-4-yl)propanoate

10.Isoleucine Ehrlich was the first one who discovered Isoleucine in 1904, with its composition

being established three years later obtained by a degradation to d-isoamylamine and consequent synthesis through the Strecker reaction with d-isovaleraldehyde.

USES

It is able to increase endurance and to help heal muscle tissue. It is particularly recommended to professional athletes and body builders, as the primary function of Isoleucine in the body is to boost up the energy levels and to assist the body in recovering from strenuous physical activity.

Isoleucine is actually an isomer of Leucine and is one of the three branched-chain amino acids that form so-called branched-chain amino acid family. As a matter of fact, the three amino acids (Isoleucine, Leucine, and Valine) constitute nearly 70% of all the amino acids in the body's proteins. That is why their value in human body is so high.

Isoleucine participates in hemoglobin synthesis, as well as in the regulation of blood sugar and energy levels. Studies revealed that this amino acid has a very low toxicity at pharmatological levels up to 8% of solution concentration in rats.

Isoleucine also aids in preventing the muscle wasting. This amino acid is known to promote the tissue repair after injury or surgery.

a supplementation with Isoleucine may positively influence the increasing muscle protein content in human bodies suffering from the muscle protein loss

Isoleucine is converted to blood sugar in the liver, i.e., it can help in maintaining normal blood glucose levels.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S,3S)-2-Amino-3-methylpentanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Ile. One-letter code - LMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 131.17292 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C6H13NO2Canonical SMILES: CCC(C)C(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: CC[C@H](C)[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: AGPKZVBTJJNPAG-JOOMIXNWDU

CAS Number: 73-32-5MDL Number: MFCD00064222Melting point: 286-288 °CSolubility in water: 41.2 g/1 L (50 °C); pKa - 2,36; pKb - 9,60IR and H1 NMR spectrum: n/aMSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): n/aOther names: (2S,3S)-alpha-Amino-beta-methyl-n-valeric acid; erythro-L-Isoleucine; L-iso-Leucine; (S)-Isoleucine; 2S,3S-Isoleucine

11.Leucine Leucine is an amino acid which was discovered in its impure form in cheese back

in 1819, and just a year later - in its crystalline form from muscles and wool. This amino acid got its name from the Greek word leukos, which means “white”, since at that time the purification of the substance in question from natural to a white, crystalline state was considered to be noteworthy. Only in the end of the 19th century the structure of Leucine was established by laboratory synthesis. This amino acid is also recognized as one of the three branched-chain amino acids.

USES

it is an essential amino acid, which helps in regulating the blood-sugar levels, promotes the growth and the recovery of muscle and bone tissues, as well as the production of the growth hormone. This amino acid is also known for preventing the breakdown of muscle proteins caused by injury or stress. In addition, Leucine may be beneficial for people suffering from phenylketonuria.

It is a great tool not just for muscle building, but for the weight loss as well.

Leucine is an essential amino acid, so your body cannot produce it naturally but only can obtain it from food, including protein-rich animal food like fish, chicken, beef, also dairy and eggs. People on a no-protein diet or strict vegans most likely would not obtain much of Leucine coursing through their blood stream.

it aids in burning fat without burning a muscle by sparing the muscle proteins and leaving them to assist in building and in increasing the muscle gain and mass.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-4-methylpentanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Leu. One-letter code - LMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 131.17292 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C6H13NO2Canonical SMILES: CC(C)CC(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: CC(C)C[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: ROHFNLRQFUQHCH-ZEYBBFMUDNCAS Number: 61-90-5

MDL Number: MFCD00002617Melting point: 293 °CSolubility in water: 22.4 g/1 L (20 °C); pKa - 2,36; pKb - 9,60Other names: L-2-Amino-4-methylpentanoic acid; alpha-Aminoisocaproic acid; L-alpha-Aminoisocaproic acid; alpha-Amino-gamma-methylvaleric acid; (S)-2-Amino-4-methylvaleric acid; 4-Methyl-norvaline

12. Lysine Lysine was discovered in 1889 by Drechsel, who first isolated it from casein (milk

protein). Three years later, its structure was elucidated. Then, Vickery and Leavenworth prepared crystalline lysine in 1928. Finally, Fischer and Weigert accomplished the synthesis of lysine by treating 7-cyanopropylmalonic ester with nitrous acid.

USES

It is necessary as a building block for all proteins in your body. It plays a major role in calcium absorption, as well as in helping building muscle protein.

Lysine aids in recovering from surgery or traumas and helps your body produce hormones, enzymes, and antibodies. This amino acid was also proved to depress the central nervous system while having antiseizure properties.

It is vital for proper growth and plays an important role in the production of carnitine, which is a nutrient that transforms fatty acids into energy and lowers cholesterol levels.

this amino acid is proved to help the human body absorb calcium, while playing an essential role in the formation of collagen - a substance necessary for both bones and connective tissues like skin, cartilage, and tendon.

A lack of Lysine in the body can cause such symptoms as slow growth, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, and even reproductive disorders. Vegans are recommended to consume more legumes like beans, peas, and lentils to obtain enough Lysine.

It may help prevent outbreaks of cold sores and genital herpes. Lysine may help prevent the bone loss caused by osteoporosis.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2,6-Diaminohexanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Lys. One-letter code - KMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 146.18756 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C6H14N2O2Canonical SMILES: C(CCN)CC(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C(CCN)C[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: KDXKERNSBIXSRK-RJFJIGAVDGCAS Number: 56-87-1MDL Number: MFCD00064433Melting point: 215 °C

Solubility in water: 1500 g/L (25 °C); pKa - 2,18; pKb - 8,95Other names: alpha-Lysine; (+)-S-Lysine; (S)-2,6-Diamino-hexanoic acid

13. Methionine J. H. Muller, a researcher at Columbia University in New York, discovered a new

amino acid Methionine back in 1922. He isolated it, but submitted an incorrect summation formula, which was corrected only 3 years later by his fellow researcher Odake from Japan. Odake was the one who gave a name to the amino acid - 'Methionine'. Finally, in another three years, Barger and Coyne identified the structure of Methionine.

USES

It is important in single-carbon metabolism and helps the detoxification in the liver.

Methionine is actually a supplier of sulfur and a few other compounds that our body needs for normal metabolism and growth

European doctors are using it to treat such conditions as depression, inflammation, liver diseases, and some muscle pains. This amino acid is particularly beneficial for people suffering from estrogen dominance, i.e. the amount of estrogen in the body is too high compared to that of progesterone.

you can get some of this amino acid from food like meat, fish, and dairy products. As for vegans and people who follow the low-protein diet, they can obtain it from whole grains.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-4-methylsulfanylbutanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Met. One-letter code - MMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 149.21134 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C5H11NO2SCanonical SMILES: CSCCC(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: CSCC[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: FFEARJCKVFRZRR-XWEZEGGSDQCAS Number: 63-68-3MDL Number: MFCD00063097Melting point: 284 °CSolubility in water: 53.7 g/1 L (20 °C); pKa - 2,28; pKb - 9,21IR and H1 NMR spectrum: n/aMSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): n/aOther names: L-2-Amino-4-(methylthio)butyric acid; S-Methionine; L-alpha-Amino-gamma-methylmercaptobutyric acid; (S)-2-Amino-4-(methylthio)butanoic acid; L-alpha-Amino-gamma-methylthiobutyric acid; L-gamma-Methylthio-alpha-aminobutyric acid; L-2-

Amino-4-methylthiobutanoic acid

14. Phenylalanine Phenylalanine was found in the seedlings of Lupinus Zuteus by Schulze and

Barbieri in 1879 - before it was discovered among the products of hydrolysis of proteins. Almost a century later, a Japanese company started production of Phenylalanine by fermentation.

USES

Phenylalanine is a precursor of Tyrosine, combined with which it leads to the formation of adrenaline. In turn, adrenaline is converted into a brain chemical utilized to produce noradrenaline responsible for promoting mental alertness and memory, and also for the elevation of mood and for the suppression of appetite.

In fact, Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid, also acting as a building block for proteins,

Since noradrenaline affects mood, various forms of phenylalanine have been suggested to treat such conditions as lack of energy, memory problems, depression, confusion, decreased alertness, and lack of appetite, all of which are considered to be caused by the Phenylalanine deficiency.

this amino acid can help treat chronic pain, strengthen the effect of UVA radiation for people with vitiligo, and even Parkinson's disease - there was a study on animals suggesting that Phenylalanine is able to improve walking disabilities, rigidity, speech difficulties, and depression caused by Parkinson's disease.

It is considered to be helpful in treating depression, because this amino acid stimulates the production of brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-3-phenylpropanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Phe. One-letter code - FMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 165.18914 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C9H11NO2Canonical SMILES: C1=CC=C(C=C1)CC(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C1=CC=C(C=C1)C[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: COLNVLDHVKWLRT-KMJKUPBBDKCAS Number: 63-91-2MDL Number: MFCD00064227Melting point: 270-275 °CSolubility in water: 27 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 1,83; pKb - 9,13IR and H1 NMR spectrum: n/aMSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): n/aOther names: L-beta-Phenylalanine; L-2-Amino-3-phenylpropionic acid; (S)-alpha-Amino-benzenepropanoic acid; (S)-alpha-Aminohydrocinnamic acid; (S)-alpha-Amino-beta-phenylpropionic acid; Phenyl-alpha-alanine; (-)-beta-Phenylalanine; beta-Phenyl-alpha-alanine; beta-Phenyl-L-alanine; 3-Phenyl-L-alanine; L-beta-Phenylalanine; (S)-Phenylalanine; 3-Phenylalanine

15.Proline Proline was the second amino acid synthesized before its presence as a product of

the hydrolysis of the protein molecule was established. Willstatter, investigating the position of the carboxyl group in N-methylproline, first obtained this amino acid in 1900. Next year, Fischer published a synthesis of Proline from phthalimide propylmalonic ester by hydrolyzing casein with hydrochloric acid, with consequent esterification of the amino acids and the next distillation of the esters.

USES

Proline is an essential component of collagen, and therefore is vital for proper functioning of joints and tendons. This amino acid helps maintain and strengthen heart muscles

Proline is recognized to be beneficial in two critical ways. Firstly, it is responsible for the creation of collagen, and secondly, it helps diminish arterioscleroses.

a lack of Proline can cause a number of problems in the human body. This can lead to multiple strains or tears in the soft tissues of the human body. In addition, a lack of this amino acid can also be liable for slower than normal healing.

As for atherosclerosis, Proline prevents its appearance the following way: every time your heart beats, your arteries expand and contract unless some fat is built up onto the walls of the arteries, which condition is known as atherosclerosis. In this case, Proline is able to help your artery be able to effectively stretch out and go back to its normal size and shape. This ability of the amino acid is essential for maintaining the appropriate pressure levels throughout the body, as well as for the long-distance transportation of blood around the circulatory system.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-Pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Pro. One-letter code - PMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 115.13046 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C5H9NO2Canonical SMILES: C1CC(NC1)C(=O)OIsomeric SMILES: C1C[C@H](NC1)C(=O)OInChIKey Identifier: ONIBWKKTOPOVIA-XWEZEGGSDTCAS Number: 147-85-3MDL Number: MFCD00064318Melting point: 228 °CSolubility in water: 1623 g/L (25 °C); pKa - 1,99; pKb - 10,60IR and H1 NMR spectrum: n/aMSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): n/aOther names: 2-Pyrrolidinecarboxylic acid; (S)-Pyrrolidine-2-carboxylic acid

16.Serine

Despite the fact that Serine is one of the most difficult of all the amino acids to obtain from proteins, it somehow appeared to be one of the early amino acids that has been discovered. Cramer first obtained Serine from silk in 1865 and this compound was later synthesized by Fischer and Leuchs in the early 20th century from glycolic aldehyde using the Strecker cyanohydrin method.

USES

Serine plays an important role in various biosynthetic pathways. t is the precursor to a number of amino acids like Glycine and Cysteine.

it also helps an enzyme catalyze its reaction - the hydrolysis of peptide bonds in polypeptides and proteins, which is basically a major function in the digestive process.

Serine is recognized as a non-essential amino acid obtained from another amino acid called Glycine and is believed to be important to overall good health, both physical and mental. This amino acid is particularly essential for proper functioning of your brain and of your central nervous system.

It help form the phospholipids which are necessary for creating every cell in the human body. In addition, this amino acid is involved in the functioning of RNA and DNA, in the muscle formation as well as in the maintenance of a proper immune system. Tryptophan, an essential amino acid used to make serotonin (a mood-determining brain chemical), also cannot be produced without Serine. Meanwhile, both serotonin and Tryptophan shortages are believed to cause depression, insomnia, and anxiety.

Serine is also known for assisting in production of immunoglobulins and antibodies for a healthy immune system, as well as for helping in the absorption of creatine that helps build and maintain the muscles.

To create proper conditions for Serine to be produced in the human body, you may need a sufficient amount of vitamin B and folic acid. Naturally, this amino acid can be derived from meat and soy foods, from dairy products, and from peanuts, but taking into account the modern Western diet including too much processed convenience food, it may be harder to obtain it than you realize.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-3-hydroxypropanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Ser. One-letter code - SMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 105.09258 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C3H7NO3Canonical SMILES: C(C(C(=O)O)N)OIsomeric SMILES: C([C@@H](C(=O)O)N)OInChIKey Identifier: MTCFGRXMJLQNBG-ODVHTPRODACAS Number: 56-45-1MDL Number: MFCD00064224Melting point: 222 °CSolubility in water: 250 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 2,21; pKb - 9,15

Other names: beta-Hydroxyalanine; (S)-Serine

17.Threonine Threonine, the last essential dietary amino acid to be identified, was found in 1935

by William Cumming Rose. This amino acid supports the human immune system by helping in the production of antibodies.

USES

it can be helpful in treating different types of depression. This amino acid makes up elastin, collagen, and enamel protein, and even promotes the proper fat metabolism in the liver.

is known for aiding the digestive and intestinal tracts to function more smoothly, as well as for helping in metabolism and assimilation.

amino acid supports central nervous, cardiovascular, liver, and immune system functioning .

it helps in the synthesis of glycine and serine which, in their turn, assist in the production of collagen, elastin, and muscle tissue.

Threonine aids building strong bones and tooth enamel and speeds up a wound healing process after trauma or surgery by boosting up the immune system.

it combines with aspartic acid and Methionine to jointly help liver digest fats and fatty acids. This process helps reduce the accumulation of fat in the liver, which would otherwise affect the liver function.

This amino acid is also useful in treating Lou Gehrig's disease, aka Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. Scientific researches show that Threonine treatment also helps alleviate symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis - another disease affecting nerves and muscles. Threonine is recognized as an immunostimulant promoting the growth of thymus gland

Proper levels of Threonine can be found in most meats, dairy and eggs. Vegans may obtain it from the wheat germ, nuts, beans and some vegetables, but in lower quantities.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S,3R)-2-Amino-3-hydroxybutanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Thr. One-letter code - TMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 119.11916 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C4H9NO3Canonical SMILES: CC(C(C(=O)O)N)OIsomeric SMILES: C[C@H]([C@@H](C(=O)O)N)OInChIKey Identifier: AYFVYJQAPQTCCC-QYISKGLTDVCAS Number: 72-19-5MDL Number: MFCD00064270Melting point: 256 °CSolubility in water: 90 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 2,09; pKb - 9,10Other names: (2S,3R)-2-Amino-3-hydroxybutyric acid; L-2-Amino-3-hydroxybutyric acid;

(S)-Threonine

18.Tryptophan Tryptophan was discovered by Frederick Hopkins in 1901 as an aromatic amino

acid. Hopkins isolated this amino acid from a pancreatic digest of casein - 4-8 grams from 600 grams of crude casein.

USES

Tryptophan is recognized as the essential building block for numerous life-giving biomolecules, like enzymes, structural proteins, serotonin, melatonin, and the neurotransmitters.

Serotonin is responsible for lots of diverse physiological functions like affective disorders, pain perception, sleep, temperature and blood pressure. This amino acid has been recognized as a possible mediator of central fatigue.

It can be obtained from plant or animal sources and is widely used in alternative medicine to help treat insomnia, anxiety, depression, and even PMS.

this amino acid is used for smoking cessation and for other conditions. It is known worldwide for relieving minor PMS, for enhancing relaxation and sleep, for soothing nerves and anxiety, and for reducing carbohydrate cravings

Tryptophan is also vital for the production process of serotonin, which is a brain chemical involved in regulating mood. Among other benefits of this amino acid there are facts that Tryptophan helps treating menopausal depressive conditions, as well as alleviating the symptoms of restless leg syndrome

it assists in controlling the hyperactivity in children and relieves stress. The researches also point out that people suffering from migraine headaches should regulate their levels of Tryptophan.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)propanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Trp. One-letter code - WMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 204.22518 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C11H12N2O2Canonical SMILES: C1=CC=C2C(=C1)C(=CN2)CC(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: C1=CC=C2C(=C1)C(=CN2)C[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: QIVBCDIJIAJPQS-FKOBDKTLDJCAS Number: 73-22-3MDL Number: MFCD00064340Melting point: 280-285 °CSolubility in water: 11,4 g/L (20 °C); pKa - 2,83; pKb - 9,39IR and H1 NMR spectrum: n/aMSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): n/aOther names: TRP; 2-Amino-3-(1H-indol-3-yl)propanoic acid; (S)-2-Amino-3-(3-indolyl)propionic acid; L- alpha-Amino-3-indolepropionic acid; alpha'-Amino-3-

indolepropionic acid; Indole-3-alanine; Indole-3-propionic acid, alpha-amino-; 1-beta-3-Indolylalanine; Propionic acid, 2-amino-3-indol-3-yl-

19.Tyrosine Tyrosine comes from the Greek 'tyros', which means 'cheese'. German chemist

Justus von Liebig discovered this amino acid in 1846. Two years later, Warren de la Rue obtained Erlenmeyer and Lipp first accomplished the synthesis of this amino acid by treating p-aminophenylalanine Tyrosine during an investigation on the composition of the cochineal insect. Finally, Emil with nitrous acid. The optical isomers of synthetic Tyrosine were later separated by Emil Fischer by crystallization of the brucine or cinchonine salts of benzoyltyrosine.

USES

This amino acid increases plasma neurotransmitter levels, especially dopamine and noradrenalin, as well as participates in the synthesis of enkephalins providing pain-relieving effects in the body.

The aforementioned compounds are very important in terms of brain health, since they are responsible for transmitting nerve impulses and preventing conditions like depression. Besides, dopamine is also essential for the mental functioning and mood, and therefore is widely used to treat mild depression and even stimulate sex drive.

this amino acid proved to be efficient in alleviating stress, anxiety and kept the patients generally more alert.

This amino acid, if obtained in full, helps reduce stress, improves mental alertness and mood, and even acts as an appetite suppressant.

Tyrosine is admitted to be essential for the production of a number of important hormones like thyroxin, which plays a key role in regulating metabolism, mental health, skin health, and the human growth rate. Besides, it is known for reducing body fat content, for helping to produce skin and hair pigment and for positively influencing thyroid, pituitary and adrenal gland.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl)propanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Tyr. One-letter code - YMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 181.18854 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C9H11NO3Canonical SMILES: C1=CC(=CC=C1CC(C(=O)O)N)OIsomeric SMILES: C1=CC(=CC=C1C[C@@H](C(=O)O)N)OInChIKey Identifier: OUYCCCASQSFEME-QAXLLPJCDYCAS Number: 60-18-4MDL Number: MFCD00002606Melting point: 290 °CSolubility in water: 0.45 g/L (25 °C); pKa - 2,20; pKb - 9,11Other names: 3-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)-L-alanine; (S)-alpha-Amino-4-hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid; (-)-alpha-Amino-p-hydroxyhydrocinnamic acid; L-p-

Tyrosine; p-Tyrosine; (S)-Tyrosine; L-Beta-(p-Hydroxyphenyl)alanine; (S)-alpha-Amino-4-hydroxybenzenepropanoic acid

20.Valine Emil Fischer has isolated Valine from casein back in 1901, which was achieved by

hydrolyzing proteins. Today Valine is recognized as the branched-chain essential amino acid providing a stimulant activity. Actually, three branched-chain amino acids constitute over 2/3 of the amino acids in the body proteins, pointing out that its role for humans is invaluable.

USES

This amino acid aids preventing the breakdown of muscle, because it supplies the muscles with an extra glucose responsible for the energy production during physical activity. Valine is also a precursor in the penicillin biosynthetic pathway and is known for inhibiting the transport of Tryptophan across the blood-brain barrier.

Valine is an essential amino acid important for smooth nervous system and cognitive functioning. Valine is one of the three branched-chain amino acids, along with Leucine and Isoleucine. This amino acid cannot be produced by your body and must be obtained through food or through supplements.

Valine is important for everyday body functions and for maintaining muscles, as well as for the regulation of the immune system. This particular amino acid is not processed by the liver, but is taken up by muscles. You can obtain it through kidney beans, leafy vegetables, poultry and milk.

Valine provides numerous benefits like improvement in insomnia and nervousness. it also greatly improves the regulation of the immune system, but probably the greatest benefits of Valine are experienced by athletes performing long-distance sports and bodybuilding, because this amino acid is important for the muscle tissue recovery and for the muscle metabolism, while increasing exercise endurance.

Bodybuilders usually use Valine together with Isoleucine and Leucine to promote muscle growth and to supply them with an energy.

Chemical Structure

IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Amino-3-methylbutanoic acidSymbol: Three-letter code - Val. One-letter code - VMolecular Weight (Molar Mass): 117.14634 g/molMolecular Formula (Structural Formula): C5H11NO2Canonical SMILES: CC(C)C(C(=O)O)NIsomeric SMILES: CC(C)[C@@H](C(=O)O)NInChIKey Identifier: RVEPXRXYSLTFTD-UHFFFAOYAICAS Number: 72-18-4MDL Number: MFCD00064220Melting point: 315 °CSolubility in water: 85 g/1 L (20 °C); pKa - 2,32; pKb - 9,62

Other names: L-2-Amino-3-methylbutyric acid; (S)-α-Aminoisovaleric acid; L-alpha-Aminoisovaleric acid