L-tryptophan
L-tryptophan (pronunciation: el-trip-toe-fan) is an amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins. It contains an amino group, a carboxyl group, and a side chain indole, making it a non-polar, aromatic amino acid. It is essential in humans, meaning the body cannot synthesize it and thus it must be obtained from the diet.
Etymology
The term "L-tryptophan" is derived from the Greek word "trypto" which means "I have tried" and "phan" which means "to show". The "L" in L-tryptophan refers to the levorotatory isomeric form of the amino acid.
Functions
L-tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. It is also a precursor to the B vitamin niacin, which is necessary for digestion, skin and nerve health, and circulation. Additionally, L-tryptophan is needed to produce melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles.
Sources
L-tryptophan is found in most protein-based foods or dietary proteins. It is particularly high in chocolate, oats, dried dates, milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, red meat, eggs, fish, poultry, sesame, chickpeas, almonds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, buckwheat, spirulina, and peanuts.
Related Terms
- Essential Amino Acid: An amino acid that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet.
- Serotonin: A neurotransmitter derived from tryptophan that is involved in many functions in the body, including regulation of mood, appetite, and sleep.
- Melatonin: A hormone produced in the brain by the pineal gland from the amino acid tryptophan. It regulates sleep-wake cycles.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on L-tryptophan
- Wikipedia's article - L-tryptophan
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