Leucine
Leucine
Leucine (pronounced: loo-seen) is an amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins. It is one of the nine essential amino acids in humans, which means it cannot be synthesized in the body and must be obtained from the diet.
Etymology
The term "Leucine" comes from the Greek word "leukos", which means "white". This is because leucine is a white, crystalline solid in its pure form.
Function
Leucine is an essential amino acid that is used by the body to build proteins. It is particularly important for muscle growth and repair, and it also plays a role in the regulation of blood sugar levels, growth hormone production, and wound healing.
Dietary Sources
Leucine is found in a variety of foods, including meat, dairy products, eggs, and soy products. It can also be obtained from certain types of beans and nuts.
Related Terms
- Amino Acid: Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. There are 20 different types of amino acids that can be combined to make a protein.
- Essential Amino Acid: Essential amino acids cannot be made by the body and must be obtained from the diet.
- Protein: Proteins are large, complex molecules that play many critical roles in the body. They are required for the structure, function, and regulation of the body's tissues and organs.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Leucine
- Wikipedia's article - Leucine
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