Aspartate
Aspartate
Aspartate (pronunciation: /əˈspɑːrteɪt/), also known as L-aspartate, is one of the 20 amino acids used in cellular functions. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of cells, particularly in the citric acid cycle, where it contributes to the production of energy.
Etymology
The term "aspartate" is derived from aspartic acid, a type of amino acid. The name "aspartic" comes from asparagus, the plant from which this amino acid was first isolated in 1806. The suffix "-ate" is used to denote the conjugate base that occurs when aspartic acid loses a proton from one of its carboxyl groups.
Function
Aspartate is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the body can produce it on its own. It is involved in several important biological processes, including:
- Protein synthesis: Aspartate is one of the building blocks of proteins.
- Energy production: Aspartate participates in the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, which is the main pathway for energy production in cells.
- Neurotransmission: Aspartate can act as a neurotransmitter in the brain, where it is involved in the transmission of nerve impulses.
Related Terms
- Aspartic acid: The acidic form of aspartate.
- Amino acid: The class of molecules to which aspartate belongs.
- Citric acid cycle: The metabolic pathway in which aspartate is involved.
- Neurotransmitter: A type of chemical messenger in the nervous system, a role that aspartate can play.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aspartate
- Wikipedia's article - Aspartate
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