Amino Acid
Published: Jul 17, 2023
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Updated: Sep 2, 2023
Written by Oseh Mathias
Founder, SpeechFit
Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins [1]. They are composed of an amino group (-NH2), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a side chain specific to each amino acid [2]. There are 20 commonly occurring amino acids that are essential for life on Earth [3].
The evolution of amino acids is thought to have occurred billions of years ago when simple organic molecules reacted under early Earth's conditions, leading to the formation of amino acids [4]. These amino acids then played a crucial role in the development of more complex organic compounds and eventually the emergence of life [5].
Amino acids play a significant role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that facilitate communication between nerve cells in the nervous system [6]. Several amino acids serve as precursors for neurotransmitter synthesis [7].
| Amino Acid | Role in Neurotransmitter Synthesis |
|---|---|
| Glutamate | Glutamate serves as a precursor for glutamate, the primary excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system [8]. |
| GABA | GABA synthesized from glutamate and acts as the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, regulating neuronal excitability [9]. |
| Glycine | Glycine acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter primarily in the spinal cord and brainstem, regulating nerve signal transmission [10]. |
| Serine | Serine involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, regulating mood and other functions [11]. |
| Tryptophan | Tryptophan serves as a precursor for serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, sleep-wake cycles, and appetite control [12]. |
| Tyrosine | Tyrosine used in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, playing roles in motivation, attention, and stress responses [13]. |
These are just a few examples of amino acids and their roles in neurotransmitter synthesis. Amino acids, through their involvement in neurotransmitter production, are vital for proper functioning of the nervous system and play a fundamental role in various neurological processes.
Oseh is a software engineer, entrepreneur and founder of SpeechFit. Oseh is passionate about improving health and wellbeing outcomes for neurodiverse people and healthcare providers alike.
References
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