Amino Acid Metabolism

• Amino acid metabolism encompasses the various biochemical processes involved in the synthesis, breakdown, and interconversion of acids, which are the building blocks of proteins.
• It is crucial for maintaining cellular function, growth, and repair.
• It can be broadly classified into two categories:

Anabolism:

• The synthesis of proteins from simpler precursors.
• There are 20 standards, 11 of which can be synthesized by the human body (non-essential) and 9 that must be obtained through diet (essential).
• The process of protein synthesis, known as translation, occurs at ribosomes and involves the use of mRNA, tRNA, and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases.

Catabolism of Amino Acid:

• The breakdown of acids and proteins for energy production, the generation of metabolic intermediates, or the removal of excess nitrogen.
• General Reactions in Metabolism:

1. Transamination of Amino Acid:

   • Process: Transfer of a group from one to a keto acid.
   • Enzyme: Transaminase (aminotransferase).
   • Importance: Produces new amino acids and plays a role in nitrogen balance.

2. Deamination:

   • Process: Removal of an amino group from an amino acid, producing a keto acid and ammonia (NH3).
   • Types: Oxidative deamination (common in liver) and non-oxidative deamination.
   • Importance: Converts into usable energy and removes excess nitrogen.

3. Decarboxylation:

   • Process: Removal of a carboxyl group (-COOH) from an acid, releasing carbon dioxide (CO2).
   • Enzyme:
   • Importance: Produces bioactive amines and neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, serotonin, GABA, and histamine.

• These reactions are fundamental for utilizing in various physiological processes, including energy production, neurotransmitter synthesis, and maintaining nitrogen balance.

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