an amino acid that contains one amino group, one carboxyl group, and a nonpolar side chain. G,A,V,L,I,P,F,M,W
Nonpolar amino acid
an amino acid that contains one amino group, one carboxyl group, and a side chain that is polar but neutral. S,C,N,T,Q,Y
Polar Neutral
an amino acid that contains two amino groups and one carboxyl group, the second amino group being part of the side chain.
Polar Basic
is an amino acid that contains one amino group and two carboxyl groups, the second carboxyl group being part of the side chain. D,E
Polar acidic
Necessary for the synthesis of neurotransmitter serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine). A natural relaxant, helps alleviate insomnia by inducing normal sleep; reduces anxiety and depression.
-Can be metabolized to niacin Vit. B3 if needed
-Used to synthesized melatonin (5-methoxy-N-acetyltryptamine)
Trp
Precursor of dopamine, norepinephrine, epinephrine Promotes healthy thyroid functioning
Tyr
enhance energy, increase endurance, and aid in muscle tissue recovery and repair. -lowers elevated blood sugar levels and increases growth hormone production.
Val, lle, Leu
- precursor for L-carathine which is essential for healthy nervous system function.
- for adequate absorption of calcium and bone development in children
Lys
- Is antioxidant. It helps in breakdown of fats and aids in reducing muscle degeneration. Helps lower cholesterol levels by increasing the liver’s production of lecithin; reduces liver fat and protects the kidneys.
-principle supplier of sulfur, which inactivates free radicals. Is a natural chelating agent for heavy metals and helps detoxify the body of these metals.
-Adequate methionine prevents disorders of the hair, skin and nails;
Met
Beneficial for healthy nervous system. It may be useful against depression and suppressing appetite. -Used to produce dopamine and norepinephrine, chemicals that promote alertness, elevate mood, decrease pain, aid in memory and learning, and reduce hunger and appetite.
Phe
Removes toxic substances released from breakdown of muscle protein during intensive exercise
Ala
antioxidant (free radical scavenger), and has synergetic effect when taken with other antioxidants such as vitamin E and selenium.
Cys
Promotes healthy brain function. It is also necessary for the synthesis of RNA and DNA molecules.
Gln
Component of skin and is beneficial for wound healing. It acts as neurotransmitter
Gly
Important for the synthesis of red and white blood cells.
It is a precursor for histamine which is good for sexual arousal. Improve blood flow.
His
It helps promote equilibrium in the central nervous system—aids in balancing state of emotion.
Thr
Enhances stamina, aids in removal of toxins and ammonia from the body, and beneficial in the synthesis of proteins involved in the immune system.
Asp
plays role in intracellular signaling
Pro
plays role in blood vessel relaxation, stimulating and maintaining erection in men, production of ejaculate, and removal of excess ammonia from the body.
Arg
• is a molecule that has a positive charge on one atom and a negative charge on another atom, but which has no net charge.
• the net charge on a zwitterion is zero even though parts of the molecule carry charges
Zwitterion
Uterus-Contracting Hormone (also stimulates lactation)
Oxytocin (9)
Enhances reabsorption of free water and plays a role in Blood pressure control
Vasopression (ADH or antidiuretic hormone)
- pain killers
- neuromodulators in the brain and spinal cord; involved with pain perception, movement, mood, behavior, and neuroendocrine regulation.
Enkephalins (5)
Found in most living cells as antioxidant & promote tissue growth
Glutathione (3)
