Fundamantal amino acids function explained

Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins in living organisms. There are 20 standard amino acids that are commonly found in proteins, each with its own unique structure and function. These amino acids can be categorized into several groups based on their properties and functions. Here, I'll explain the general functions of amino acids, keeping in mind that each individual amino acid contributes to protein structure and function in its own specific way:

1. Structural Function:

   • Glycine: Glycine is the simplest amino acid and is often found in collagen, the primary structural protein in the body.
   •  
   • Glycine in food:
     Meat and Poultry: Glycine is present in relatively high amounts in meat and poultry products. Pork and chicken, in particular, are good sources.

   • Fish: Certain types of fish, such as cod and salmon, contain glycine.

   • Gelatin: Gelatin is derived from the collagen found in animal connective tissues and is a rich source of glycine. It is commonly used in desserts like Jell-O and can be found in some broths and gummy candies.

   • Dairy Products: Dairy products like milk and cheese contain some glycine.

   • Legumes: Certain legumes, such as black beans and chickpeas, contain glycine.

   • Spinach: Some vegetables, including spinach, contain glycine.

   • Soy Products: Soybeans and soy-based products like tofu contain glycine.

   • Eggs: Eggs contain glycine, with the highest concentration found in the egg white (albumen).

   • Nuts and Seeds: Some nuts and seeds, such as pumpkin seeds, contain small amounts of glycine.

   • Bone Broth: Homemade bone broth, prepared by simmering animal bones, connective tissues, and sometimes vegetables, is a good source of glycine due to its collagen content.

   • Proline: Proline is important for the stability of protein structures, especially in collagen and certain enzymes.

2. Energy Source:

   • Amino acids can be broken down and used as an energy source when the body needs it.

3. Enzyme Function:

   • Many amino acids serve as essential components of enzymes, which are biological catalysts that facilitate chemical reactions in the body. For example:
     • Histidine: Acts as a catalyst in enzymatic reactions.
     • Serine: Part of the active sites in serine protease enzymes.

4. Transport and Storage:

   • Some amino acids are involved in transporting and storing essential molecules:
     • Cysteine: Involved in the formation of disulfide bonds, important for protein structure and stability.
     • Glutamine: Used in the transport of ammonia in the blood.

5. Neurotransmitter and Signaling Molecules:

   • Certain amino acids serve as neurotransmitters or precursors for signaling molecules in the nervous system:
     • Glutamate and GABA: Excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters, respectively.
     • Tyrosine: A precursor for dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine.

6. Immune Function:

   • Amino acids like arginine play a role in immune function by participating in the production of nitric oxide, which is important for immune responses.

7. Metabolic Pathways:

   • Amino acids are involved in various metabolic pathways in the body. For example:
     • Methionine: Involved in methylation reactions.
     • Tryptophan: Precursor for serotonin and melatonin.

8. pH Regulation:

   • Amino acids can act as buffers to help regulate the pH of bodily fluids.

9. Detoxification:

   • Some amino acids, like cysteine and glycine, are involved in detoxifying harmful substances in the body.

10. Nutrient Transport:

    • Amino acids can be used to transport nutrients in the body. For example, lysine is involved in calcium absorption.

11. Antioxidant Defense:

    • Amino acids like cysteine and glutathione act as antioxidants, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage.

It's important to note that the specific function of an amino acid depends on its chemical properties, its position in a protein's sequence, and the overall structure of the protein. Proteins are made up of chains of amino acids folded into complex three-dimensional shapes, and the arrangement of amino acids within the protein determines its function. Additionally, amino acids can have non-protein roles in the body, as highlighted in some of the examples above.