How to learn the basics of biochemistry. Amino acids necessary for humans How to remember all the amino acids

1. Amino acids

Scarlet Waltz. Flies (from the log)

Copper Farewells, Grass Finale.

Gray Clay, Anxiety,

Ceremony, Silence.

Slate Depths of Leaf Fall

(Fall into) Giant Arcade.

That is: Alanine, Valine, Leucine, Isoleucine, Methionine, Proline, Tryptophan, Phenylalanine, Glycine, Serine, Threonine, Cysteine, Tyrosine, Asparagine and Aspartic acid, Glutamine and Glutamic acid, Lysine, Histidine, Arginine.

2. In order not to confuse complementary nitrogenous bases, you can remember pairs of words:

Pineapple – Plate

Chicken - Nest.(Pineapple on a plate, chicken in a nest). A–T C–G.

3. Dad - X and Y

Mom - two X's.

If there is a game X,

Then only a son will be born.

Two X's (and a dot)

Only a daughter will be born.

4. Metabolism includes two opposing processes: anabolism - the process of formation of complex substances from the simplest components and catabolism - the process of decomposition of complex organic substances into simpler ones. Using mnemonic memorization techniques, you can easily remember:

anabolism – Anya builds; catabolism – Katya destroys.

5. To memorize systematic categories of animals, you can ask students to memorize the phrase: The Royal Tower Whoever opens it will immediately return as a Knight.

Or, if you prefer, this one: The Cat Tenaciously Drags the Stub of a Silver Fish Vertkoy: Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species.

6. The ascending and descending flows of substances in a plant are called very cleverly: xylem and phloem.

Along the Phloem, the products of Photosynthesis - organic substances - move down.

Xylem transports water and minerals from the roots upward.

7. L ist

AND has

M mechanical

P blood

ABOUT educational

P conductive

ABOUT warp fabric

8. DNA contains
Inheritance information.
DNA doubling
We're calling reduplication.

9. DNA is double
And the structure is not simple.
Monomer–nucleotide,
Consists of three things
Behind the nitrogen base
How to be in formation - that’s beauty.
Deoxyribose carbohydrate,
Phosphoric acid.
There are four bases
We will remember their names:
Cytosine + guanine,
And thymine + adenine.

10. We can safely cut the hydra -
Restore your body.
This is not a sensation
A regeneration.

11. There are special organs
Their glands are called.
Scattered throughout the body
They are both here and here.
Release substances
In the ducts and outside -
What we call the glands exocrine.
If hormones are released directly into the blood,
And growth, exchange, love depend on them,
Then these endocrine We call the glands.
They function - we live normally.

12. There is a gland under the stomach,
Highlights insulin.
Two carbohydrate exchanges
We all need it.
High glucose level
He will reduce the blood to “no”.
If there is little insulin -
You will have diabetes.

13. Two organisms are mutually beneficial,
They are simply tied together like iron.
Living alone? - a huge question.
There is such cohabitation symbiosis.

14. Boletus with birch
Exchanged substance.
We are such a relationship
Mycorrhiza we're calling.

15. To make it easier to memorize the acids involved in Krebs cycle, There is a mnemonic rule:

A Whole Pineapple And a Piece of Soufflé Today Is Actually My Lunch, which corresponds to the series - citrate, (cis-)aconitate, isocitrate, (alpha-)ketoglutarate, succinyl-CoA, succinate, fumarate, malate, oxaloacetate.

There is also the following mnemonic poem (its author is E. V. Parshkova, assistant at the Department of Biochemistry of KSMU):

Pike acetyl limonyl,

But the horse was afraid of narcissus,

He is above him isolimonically

Alpha-ketoglutar.

Succinated with coenzyme,

Amber fumarovo,

I saved some apples for the winter,

Turned into a pike again.

(oxaloacetic acid, citric acid, cis-aconitic acid, isocitric acid, β-ketoglutaric acid, succinyl-CoA, succinic acid, fumaric acid, malic acid, oxaloacetic acid).

Another version of the poem

The pike ate the acetate,

it turns out citrate

via cis-aconitate

will it be isocitrate

giving hydrogens to OAD,

it loses CO2

I'm extremely happy about this

alpha-ketoglutarate

oxidation is coming -

NAD stole hydrogen

TDF, coenzyme A

take CO2

and the energy is barely

appeared in succinyl

immediately GTF was born

and what remained was succinate

Now he got to FAD -

he needs hydrogen

fumarate drank water,

and he turned into malate

here NAD came to malate,

acquired hydrogens

PIKE has appeared again

and quietly hid

Guard acetate...

16. Supination and pronation (directions of hand movement): when supination and pronation they usually use an analogy with the phrase “She carried the soup and spilled it.” You need to stretch your hand forward with your palm up (forward with the limb hanging) and imagine that there is a plate of soup on your hand - “She carried the soup” - supination. Turning the hand palm down (backward with a freely hanging limb) - “shed” - pronation.

17. To remember the names and locations of the wrist bones (the bones are listed in a circle):

In the boat (scaphoid) under the moon (lunate)

Three (triangular) spruce peas (pea-shaped)

Yes, they took it off the hook (hook-shaped)

Fish heads (capitate).

They were in a hurry when they saw the (trapezoidal) trapezoid (trapezoid).

18. There is a leap in evolution,
Like a breath of air -
A new method of reproduction -
Internal fertilization.
Will there be progress? No question
After all, this is aromorphosis.

19. Work with cones during the day, walk with rods at night- to remember the specifics of the work of the photoreceptors of the retina.

20. Circus, Huge Motley Dome,

Like a Rainbow, Raised(You).

From the first letters of the “verse” it is easy to remember the correct sequence of arrangement of systematic groups of plants:

Family,

21. Ribosomes are like beads
We got into DNA.
With DNA they read
Protein molecule code.
They build the protein chain
According to information.
Together we call the whole process
Short: broadcast.

22. Here's the problem - a boy was born
Hairy and with a tail.
Return to our ancestors
Atavisms we're calling.

23. Every Girl Should Know Her Seventh Floor Exactly.

The beginning of each word corresponds to a specific function of proteins: Catalytic, Motor, Respiratory, Transport, Protective, Construction, Signal and Energy.

24. Essential amino acids

The phenomenally accurate lieutenant demands to imitate a waltz with Lisa three times.

25. Pituitary releases samatotropin.
All people in the world need it.
If the hormone is not released enough -
This trouble is just the beginning.
Here, despite any years,
You will be a dwarf forever.
Too much hormone - again trouble -
Then you will grow up to be a giant.
But even if you have grown up -
Your hand or nose will become huge.

26. The thyroid gland is an important organ
There is no replacement for it.
It releases little hormones -
There will be myxedema.
Oxidation intensity
Decreases in tissues
Heart rate
It slows down a lot.
They won't worry you
Movies about spies
And the child will be a cretin,
If there are no hormones.
If there are a lot of hormones in it
(this happens often)
That blood pressure
It's going up a lot.
With Graves' disease
Hunger awakens
The patient is often tired
Gets irritated quickly.

27. Swallowed food
It gets into the stomach.
Here are the glands of the stomach
Enzymes are secreted
Proteins are broken down here.
Pepsin and gastrixin.
Stomach protects
Mucous mucin.
Lipase breaks down
Fats from milk.
And the main part of fats
Untouched for now.
Digestion in progress
In hydrochloric acid.
Such an acidic environment
Nowhere else.

28. Can live without oxygen
Their names are anaerobes.

29. The rest of the life of the past era
It has survived well to this day.
Perhaps he is not famous for anything,
But it is important to know it, because it is relic.

30. Eyebrows, eyelashes and eyelids
Not just given to a person.
The eyes are like guards, they protect
It is protected from moisture and dust.
The organ of vision is the eye,
It has three shells.
The one that is white on the outside
Let's call it protein.
So transparent ahead -
Comparable to glass.
We simply call this part the cornea.
Layer two - it contains vessels,
Ahead he is an iris.
There is a hole in it - the pupil,
And the pigments are different.
Receptors in the retina, deep,
Everyone helps me see clearly.
We will divide them into pairs:
Some are cones, others are rods.

31. Green fern leaf
He's not entirely clean.
On the underside of the sheet
There are dark dots for a reason.
They are called sporangia
Small spores ripen in them.
And for the disputes that ripen on him
We call it a sporophyte.
The spores have ripened and fallen to the ground,
But they didn’t disappear completely.
Disputes on the basis suddenly sprouted -
They became small shoots.
And at the shoots - look -
There are archegonia and antheridia.
They contain gamete sex cells
Sperm and eggs.
The sperm will swim up in the water -
And fertilization will occur.
And after that there will be a zygote
(It’s a great hunt to remember all this).
So here is the smallest green shoot
And it turns into a new seedling.
What is on the germ of the gamete,
Let's remember this very clearly.
If they ask, we will answer night and day,
We call the prothallus a gametophyte.

32. The leaves of the plants have changed.
All of a sudden they turned into various organs.
Barberry needles, pea tendrils,
Cactus thorns - everyone lives well.
Same origin, but different functions.
We are such bodies
We're calling homologous.

33. Fish and crayfish have gills,
We don't need to explain:
Different origins
One function is to breathe.
They have one function,
The structure is different.
We are such bodies
We're calling similar.

Ksyu

So is this some kind of joke? How to learn biochemistry?

admin

Well, how? Learn. What kind of jokes can there be? Although, what am I talking about... Most of them don’t know how to read, but I’m talking about biochemistry...

Simple example
The registration form on the website says:
Last name, initials:
That is, something like this is expected Pupkin I.I. Last name and initials.
Two out of three students fill out only last name In "fruitful years" - three out of four.
What is this? Inattention? Lack of vocabulary? I don't care?

So they teach the subject in the same way - the teacher downloaded the lecture notes, flipped through them diagonally - as if he was prepared. Well, well...

admin

As the session approaches, an avalanche-like increase in readings of this material is observed.

Gavrilenko Alena Valerievna

A wonderful article about the young science of the future, thank you. And on what sites can you find animations of molecular biology, “biochemical” videos, like on the channel It Works, in Russian. And are there even audio lectures for free downloading on the internet in Russian, or through which website is it better to order them for purchase? And, if it’s not difficult, please tell me the online servers for making changes to PDB files. Thank you.

admin

Gavrilenko Alena Valerievna

And on what sites can you find animations of molecular biology, “biochemical” videos, like on the channel It Works, in Russian.

In Russian? You can look at it on the unified educational portal, although, frankly speaking, it is at the school level. Often the information is outdated and contains errors. Most likely, you will have to translate it yourself - gif editors, video editors. It is possible that you can draw or shoot it yourself. I proceed from the fact that every video or animation that can be found on the Internet was made for specific purposes.

Gavrilenko Alena Valerievna

And are there even audio lectures for free downloading on the Internet in Russian or through which website is it better to order them for purchase?

Audio lectures? In biochemistry??? I’ve never been interested in this question... I really can’t imagine how to teach, for example, structural biochemistry solely by ear. Teach chirality and stereoisomerism to students who are blindfolded. Even with presentations/graphics, they don’t immediately understand what it’s about...
As for free downloading... Currently, taking into account the monetization of everything and everyone, as well as taking into account the Copyright of Any Rubbish - free sources quality no content. If there is something suddenly, then it is most likely an outright pirate.
Regarding the purchase, perhaps you should pay attention to the video lectures? Look at distance learning centers at universities, search for channels on YouTube. Although everything is sad there too... On the MSU channel, for example, there are as many as 7 videos from the chemistry department and 10 videos from the biology department. There are no complete sets of lectures, although I know for sure that the lectures were written by Prof. Milekyan, for example. Spirin wrote. Do you need to contact the distance learning center to find out if it is even digitized? If so, how to get/buy/exchange.

Gavrilenko Alena Valerievna

please tell me the online servers for making changes to PDB files.

http://deposit.rcsb.org/ - depository
http://deposit.rcsb.org/depoinfo/depofaq.html - FAQ on placement.
There are all the instructions - how to check, how to format, what and how to pack files.

Alena

I want to become an expert in protein-protein docking, no matter how funny it may sound with my zero knowledge of chemistry and physics. I pretend that I am studying protein physics by Finkelstein and molecular modeling theory and practice by Hölte, Zippl, Ronyan, Volkers - it seemed that this could help me. What literature can I use to gain some insight in my situation and what free programs can I download on my PC for protein docking?

admin

Alena

Which literature can I use to gain some sanity in my situation?

NCBI server, of course. Key phrase to search: protein-protein docking. There, in the search for articles, you will find all the new products on the software used, algorithms, principles, etc. In any case, it’s better to start your search there.

Alena

And what free programs can I download on my PC for protein protein docking?

There will be a problem with free ones... Since structure prediction is a potential sweet spot - drag design, for example, you will have to search hard for free software...

I would advise using server software to start with. Docking, in essence, is the prediction of a three-dimensional structure and options for its packaging with neighboring molecules (domains). The calculations are very “gluttonous” and demanding on computer resources - somehow I’m not happy about a constantly frozen computer and a calculation that lasts a week.

Again, in the Western scientific world not all are rednecks, and some software can be obtained for free under an academic license: http://www.russelllab.org/cgi-bin/tools/interprets.pl

Yes, also look towards BioLinux - a good build specifically for bioinformatics, with a free license.

Ruslan

Hello, I am interested in the map of metabolic pathways (the one indicated in the description). Can you tell me where I can download it? P.S. I did not find such an opportunity on the site indicated in the description. Thanks in advance.

admin

Ruslan

Can you tell me where I can download it?

Nowhere. There is no way to download this map in one file (in one piece).
It is available in electronic form on the specified website, in the form of a map:

Electronic version

Following the outstanding success of the two posters for over four decades, and of the electronic version hosted on ExPASy since 1994, Roche has created a new electronic version of Biochemical Pathways.

Ruslan

I did not find such an opportunity on the site indicated in the description.

Of course. They earn money from this, and a lot of it. You can use their website, constantly increasing traffic to it, or you can order an already printed map - a hefty poster like this:

Hard copy

More than 700"000 hard copies of the wall charts have been distributed to medical and life-science researchers and students around the world. The Biochemical Pathway posters are still available as paper copy from Roche: Visit the Roche website and order your copy by using the order form.

Pupkin I. I.

Chemical substances containing the structural components of a carboxylic acid and an amine molecule are called amino acids. This is the general name for a group of organic compounds that contain a hydrocarbon chain, a carboxyl group (-COOH) and an amino group (-NH2). Their precursors are carboxylic acids, and molecules in which the hydrogen at the first carbon atom is replaced by an amino group are called alpha amino acids.

Only 20 amino acids are valuable for enzymatic biosynthesis reactions that occur in the body of all living beings. These substances are called standard amino acids. There are also non-standard amino acids that are included in some special protein molecules. They are not found everywhere, although they perform an important function in wildlife. It is likely that the radicals of these acids are modified after biosynthesis.

General information and list of substances

There are two large groups of amino acids that were isolated due to the patterns of their occurrence in nature. Specifically, there are 20 standard type amino acids and 26 non-standard type amino acids. The former are found in the proteins of any living organism, while the latter are specific to individual living organisms.

The 20 standard amino acids are divided into 2 types depending on their ability to be synthesized in the human body. These are replaceable, which in human cells can be formed from precursors, and irreplaceable, for the synthesis of which there are no enzyme systems or substrate. Nonessential amino acids may not be present in food, since the body can synthesize them, replenishing their quantity if necessary. Essential amino acids cannot be obtained by the body on its own and therefore must be obtained from food.

Biochemists have determined the names of amino acids from the group of essential amino acids. There are 8 known in total:

• methionine;
• threonine;
• isoleucine;
• leucine;
• phenylalanine;
• tryptophan;
• valine;
• lysine;
• histidine is also often included here.

These are substances with a different structure of the hydrocarbon radical, but always with the presence of a carboxyl group and an amino group at the alpha-C atom.

There are 11 substances in the group of non-essential amino acids:

• alanine;
• glycine;
• arginine;
• asparagine;
• aspartic acid;
• cysteine;
• glutamic acid;
• glutamine;
• proline;
• serine;
• tyrosine

Basically, their chemical structure is simpler than that of the essential ones, so their synthesis is easier for the body. Most essential amino acids cannot be obtained only due to the lack of a substrate, that is, a precursor molecule through a transamination reaction.

Glycine, alanine, valine

In the biosynthesis of protein molecules, glycine, valine and alanine are most often used (the formula of each substance is indicated below in the figure). These amino acids are the simplest in chemical structure. The substance glycine is the simplest in the class of amino acids, that is, in addition to the alpha carbon atom, the compound has no radicals. However, even the simplest molecule in structure plays an important role in ensuring life. In particular, the porphyrin ring of hemoglobin and purine bases are synthesized from glycine. The porphyry ring is a protein section of hemoglobin, designed to hold iron atoms as part of an integral substance.

Glycine is involved in the functioning of the brain, acting as an inhibitory transmitter of the central nervous system. This means that it is more involved in the work of the cerebral cortex - its most complexly organized tissue. More importantly, glycine is a substrate for the synthesis of purine bases necessary for the formation of nucleotides that encode hereditary information. In addition, glycine serves as a source for the synthesis of the other 20 amino acids, while it itself can be formed from serine.

The amino acid alanine has a slightly more complex formula than glycine, since it has a methyl radical replaced by one hydrogen atom at the alpha carbon atom of the substance. At the same time, alanine also remains one of the molecules most often involved in the processes of protein biosynthesis. It is part of any protein in living nature.

Valine, which cannot be synthesized in the human body, is an amino acid with a branched hydrocarbon chain consisting of three carbon atoms. The isopropyl radical gives the molecule more weight, but because of this it is impossible to find a substrate for biosynthesis in the cells of human organs. Therefore, valine must be supplied with food. It is present predominantly in the structural proteins of muscles.

Research results confirm that valine is essential for the functioning of the central nervous system. In particular, due to its ability to restore the myelin sheath of nerve fibers, it can be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of multiple sclerosis, drug addiction, and depression. It is found in large quantities in meat products, rice, and dried peas.

Tyrosine, histidine, tryptophan

In the body, tyrosine can be synthesized from phenylalanine, although it comes in large quantities from dairy foods, mainly cottage cheese and cheeses. It is part of casein, an animal protein found in abundance in curd and cheese products. The key significance of tyrosine is that its molecule becomes a substrate for the synthesis of catecholamines. These are adrenaline, norepinephrine, dopamine - mediators of the humoral system for regulating body functions. Tyrosine is able to quickly penetrate the blood-brain barrier, where it quickly turns into dopamine. The tyrosine molecule is involved in melanin synthesis, providing pigmentation to the skin, hair and iris.

The amino acid histidine is part of the structural and enzymatic proteins of the body and is a substrate for the synthesis of histamine. The latter regulates gastric secretion, participates in immune reactions, and regulates the healing of damage. Histidine is an essential amino acid, and the body replenishes its reserves only from food.

Tryptophan is also unable to be synthesized by the body due to the complexity of its hydrocarbon chain. It is part of proteins and is a substrate for the synthesis of serotonin. The latter is a neurotransmitter designed to regulate the cycles of wakefulness and sleep. Tryptophan and tyrosine - these names of amino acids should be remembered by neurophysiologists, since they synthesize the main mediators of the limbic system (serotonin and dopamine), which ensure the presence of emotions. However, there is no molecular form that ensures the accumulation of essential amino acids in tissues, which is why they must be present in food daily. Protein food in the amount of 70 grams per day fully meets these needs of the body.

Phenylalanine, leucine and isoleucine

Phenylalanine is notable for the fact that the amino acid tyrosine is synthesized from it when it is deficient. Phenylalanine itself is a structural component of all proteins in living nature. It is a metabolic precursor to the neurotransmitter phenylethylamine, providing mental focus, mood enhancement, and psychostimulation. In the Russian Federation, circulation of this substance in concentrations above 15% is prohibited. The effect of phenylethylamine is similar to that of amphetamine, but the former does not have a harmful effect on the body and differs only in the development of mental dependence.

One of the main substances of the amino acid group is leucine, from which the peptide chains of any human protein, including enzymes, are synthesized. The compound, used in its pure form, is capable of regulating liver functions, accelerating the regeneration of its cells, and ensuring rejuvenation of the body. Therefore, leucine is an amino acid that is available in the form of a drug. It is highly effective in the auxiliary treatment of liver cirrhosis, anemia, and leukemia. Leucine is an amino acid that significantly facilitates the rehabilitation of patients after chemotherapy.

Isoleucine, like leucine, is not able to be synthesized by the body independently and belongs to the group of essential ones. However, this substance is not a medicine, since the body has little need for it. Basically, only one stereoisomer (2S,3S)-2-amino-3-methylpentanoic acid is involved in biosynthesis.

Proline, serine, cysteine

The substance proline is an amino acid with a cyclic hydrocarbon radical. Its main value is the presence of a ketone group in the chain, which is why the substance is actively used in the synthesis of structural proteins. Reduction of the heterocycle ketone to a hydroxyl group to form hydroxyproline forms multiple hydrogen bonds between collagen chains. As a result, the threads of this protein intertwine and provide a strong intermolecular structure.

Proline is an amino acid that provides mechanical strength to human tissue and its skeleton. Most often it is found in collagen, which is part of bones, cartilage and connective tissue. Like proline, cysteine ​​is an amino acid from which structural protein is synthesized. However, this is not collagen, but a group of alpha-keratin substances. They form the stratum corneum of the skin, nails, and are present in hair scales.

The substance serine is an amino acid that exists in the form of optical L and D isomers. This is a nonessential substance synthesized from phosphoglycerate. Serine can be formed during an enzymatic reaction from glycine. This interaction is reversible, and therefore glycine can be formed from serine. The main value of the latter is that enzymatic proteins, or rather their active centers, are synthesized from serine. Serine is widely present in structural proteins.

Arginine, methionine, threonine

Biochemists have determined that excessive consumption of arginine provokes the development of Alzheimer's disease. However, in addition to the negative meaning, the substance also has functions that are vital for reproduction. In particular, due to the presence of a guanidine group, which resides in the cell in cationic form, the compound is capable of forming a huge number of intermolecular hydrogen bonds. Thanks to this, arginine in the form of a zwitterion acquires the ability to bind to the phosphate regions of DNA molecules. The result of the interaction is the formation of many nucleoproteins - the packaging form of DNA. Arginine, during changes in the pH of the nuclear matrix of the cell, can be detached from the nucleoprotein, providing unwinding of the DNA chain and the beginning of translation for protein biosynthesis.

The amino acid methionine contains a sulfur atom in its structure, which is why the pure substance in crystalline form has an unpleasant rotten odor due to the released hydrogen sulfide. In the human body, methionine performs a regenerative function, promoting the healing of liver cell membranes. Therefore, it is available in the form of an amino acid preparation. A second drug intended for diagnosing tumors is also synthesized from methionine. It is synthesized by replacing one carbon atom with its C11 isotope. In this form, it actively accumulates in tumor cells, making it possible to determine the size of brain tumors.

Unlike the amino acids mentioned above, threonine is of lesser importance: amino acids are not synthesized from it, and its content in tissues is low. The main value of threonine is its inclusion in proteins. This amino acid has no specific functions.

Asparagine, lysine, glutamine

Asparagine is a common nonessential amino acid present as the sweet-tasting L-isomer and the bitter-tasting D-isomer. Body proteins are formed from asparagine, and oxaloacetate is synthesized through gluconeogenesis. This substance is able to oxidize in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and provide energy. This means that in addition to the structural function, asparagine also performs an energetic one.

Lysine, which cannot be synthesized in the human body, is an amino acid with alkaline properties. Immune proteins, enzymes and hormones are mainly synthesized from it. Moreover, lysine is an amino acid that independently exhibits antiviral agents against the herpes virus. However, the substance is not used as a drug.

The amino acid glutamine is present in the blood in concentrations much higher than other amino acids. It plays a major role in the biochemical mechanisms of nitrogen metabolism and the excretion of metabolites, participates in the synthesis of nucleic acids, enzymes, hormones, and is capable of strengthening the immune system, although it is not used as a drug. But glutamine is widely used among athletes, as it helps to recover after training and removes nitrogen and butyrate metabolites from the blood and muscles. This mechanism for accelerating the athlete’s recovery is not considered artificial and is not rightly recognized as doping. Moreover, there are no laboratory methods for convicting athletes of such doping. Glutamine is also present in significant quantities in food.

Aspartic and glutamic acid

Aspartic and glutamic amino acids are extremely valuable to the human body due to their neurotransmitter-activating properties. They speed up the transfer of information between neurons, ensuring the maintenance of the functioning of brain structures lying below the cortex. In such structures, reliability and constancy are important, because these centers regulate breathing and blood circulation. Therefore, there is a huge amount of aspartic and glutamic amino acids in the blood. The spatial structural formula of amino acids is shown in the figure below.

Aspartic acid is involved in the synthesis of urea, eliminating ammonia from the brain. It is an important substance for maintaining a high rate of reproduction and renewal of blood cells. Of course, in leukemia this mechanism is harmful, and therefore, to achieve remission, enzyme preparations that destroy the aspartic amino acid are used.

One fourth of all amino acids in the body is glutamic acid. This is a neurotransmitter of postsynaptic receptors, necessary for synaptic transmission of impulses between neuron processes. However, glutamic acid is also characterized by an extrasynaptic pathway of information transmission - volumetric neurotransmission. This method underlies memory and represents a neurophysiological mystery, because it has not yet been clarified which receptors determine the amount of glutamate outside the cell and outside the synapses. However, it is the amount of substance outside the synapse that is thought to be important for bulk neurotransmission.

Chemical structure

All non-standard and 20 standard amino acids have a common structure plan. It includes a cyclic or aliphatic hydrocarbon chain with or without radicals, an amino group at the alpha carbon atom and a carboxyl group. The hydrocarbon chain can be anything, in order for a substance to have the reactivity of amino acids, the location of the main radicals is important.

The amino group and carboxyl group must be attached to the first carbon atom of the chain. According to the nomenclature accepted in biochemistry, it is called an alpha atom. This is important for the formation of a peptide group, the most important chemical bond that makes proteins exist. From the point of view of biological chemistry, life is the mode of existence of protein molecules. The main importance of amino acids is the formation of peptide bonds. The general structural formula of amino acids is presented in the article.

Physical properties

Despite the similar structure of the hydrocarbon chain, amino acids have significantly different physical properties from carboxylic acids. At room temperature they are hydrophilic crystalline substances and are highly soluble in water. In an organic solvent, due to dissociation at the carboxyl group and the removal of a proton, amino acids dissolve poorly, forming mixtures of substances, but not true solutions. Many amino acids taste sweet, while carboxylic acids taste sour.

These physical properties are due to the presence of two functional chemical groups, due to which the substance behaves in water like a dissolved salt. Under the influence of water molecules, a proton is removed from the carboxyl group, the acceptor of which is the amino group. Due to the shift in the electron density of the molecule and the absence of freely moving protons, pH (an indicator of acidity) the solution remains quite stable when acids or alkalis with high dissociation constants are added. This means that amino acids are able to form weak buffer systems, maintaining homeostasis in the body.

It is important that the charge modulus of a dissociated amino acid molecule is zero, since the proton removed from the hydroxyl group is accepted by the nitrogen atom. However, a positive charge is formed on the nitrogen in the solution, and a negative charge is formed on the carboxyl group. The ability to dissociate directly depends on acidity, and therefore there is an isoelectric point for amino acid solutions. This is the pH (a measure of acidity) at which the largest number of molecules have zero charge. In this state, they are motionless in the electric field and do not conduct current.

Under the heading amino acids necessary for humans, we mean essential amino acids. Every person who is used to taking care of their health should know about them. The group of essential amino acids includes substances that human […]

Under the heading amino acids necessary for humans, we mean essential amino acids. Every person who is used to taking care of their health should know about them. The group of essential amino acids includes substances that the human body is not able to produce on its own. But still, these connections are required for the correct functioning of all organs and systems. Therefore, it is recommended to get them from healthy foods. Through proper nutrition, a person can regularly replenish essential amino acids, which means he can always be strong, healthy and beautiful.

List of essential amino acids for humans

Most authoritative sources talk about 8 essential amino acids. They are quite well studied. And according to other sources, there are 10 essential amino acids. Our task is to speak briefly and to the point about all types. So, essential amino acids include:

• Valin;
• Phenylalanine;
• Isoleucine;
• Tryptophan;
• Histidine (modern science does not classify Histidine among the spectrum of essential amino acids, so it is more correct to call it partially essential);
• Leucine;
• Methionine;
• Arginine (please note that Arginine, in fact, is a partially replaceable substance in the body, since it is formed only on the basis of incoming food amino acids, but Arginine should not be classified as conditionally essential amino acids that appear from essential amino acids not supplied with food, and we also note that Arginine is an important substance for health and harmonious development in childhood);
• Threonine;
• Lysine.

These amino acids are extremely important for every person from birth and at any age. With their help, you can maintain ideal body condition, be resilient and successful in sports, have good health, excellent mood, mental health and always youthful appearance.

The above are the essential amino acids known to modern science. Reliable information on their content in meat, dairy and plant products is presented below.

Amino acid Valine

Best food sources of Valine:

• grain products;
• dairy products;
• legumes;
• mushrooms;
• nuts - peanuts;
• meat products.

Amino acid Isoleucine

Available food sources of Isoleucine:

• meat products - chicken fillet;
• rye products;
• soybean legume;
• nuts - cashews and almonds;
• offal - animal liver;
• chickpeas - Turkish peas;
• eggs;
• different types of fish;
• almost all varieties of seeds;
• lentils.

Amino acid Leucine

Leucine Supplier Products:

• brown rice is a very healthy brown rice, suitable for diets, healthy and sports nutrition;
• eggs;
• nuts;
• fish;
• lentils;
• chicken fillet;
• oats;
• different types of seeds.

Amino acid Phenylalanine

What foods can you get the essential amino acid Phenylalanine from:

• legumes;
• milk;
• natural cottage cheese;
• different types of nuts;
• meat - chicken fillet and beef;
• various types of fish;
• aspartame (it is known that Phenylalanine appears in the body through the breakdown of the synthetic analogue of sugar Aspartame; this substitute is widely used today in the food industry).

Amino acid Lysine

Let's list which foods have a higher percentage of Lysine:

• amaranth (dietary protein product);
• fish dishes;
• wheat;
• different types of meat;
• dairy products;
• many varieties of nuts.

Amino acid Tryptophan

What foods can you get more Tryptophan from:

• chicken fillet;
• legumes;
• fish;
• oats;
• cottage cheese (remember that cottage cheese contains beneficial amino acids only if it is natural and of very high quality);
• dry dates;
• turkey fillet;
• yoghurts;
• nuts - peanuts and pine nuts;
• sesame seeds;
• milk.

Amino acid Threonine

Best food sources of Threonine:

• eggs;
• nuts;
• dairy products;
• beans.

Amino acid Methionine

Suppliers of Methionine from food:

• beans;
• different types of fish;
• soybean legume;
• natural milk;
• beans;
• meat dishes;
• lentils;
• bird eggs.

Amino acid Histidine

Sources of Histidine:

• nuts - peanuts;
• meat - beef and chicken fillet;
• soybeans;
• lentil legume;
• pork - tenderloin;
• fish - salmon and tuna.

Amino acid Arginine

Good food sources of Arginine:

• 2 types of meat - beef, pork;
• nuts - peanuts;
• seeds - pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds;
• yogurt;
• cheese (it is believed that Swiss cheese is rich in arginine).

We briefly reviewed essential amino acids, naming the richest food sources. From the lists above, it is clear that it is not difficult to maintain the correct balance of amino acids in the body. Essential amino acids are really necessary for the body to function correctly, so each of us must take care of a balanced diet in accordance with the needs of our body. As you can see, essential amino acids are found in meat. They are also found in many other everyday products familiar to most of us that are easy to purchase in the store. These are plant and animal products.

Content of essential amino acids in products table

You don't need to be a scientist to find out how many amino acids each food contains. Today such information is publicly available. The table clearly reflects the most useful essential amino acids, keep it for yourself, it will be useful to you. Our table shows how many grams of amino acids are contained in a 100-gram serving of each type of food.

How many essential amino acids do foods contain?

How are essential amino acids compensated?

As we know, the human body is unable to produce any of the essential amino acids. Interestingly, the deficiency of these nutrients is sometimes slightly compensated for.

First example: Glutamic acid partially replaces the amino acid Arginine.

Second example: to reduce the need for the amino acid Methionine, Homocysteine ​​is required along with a certain amount of special substances. They are called methyl group donors. It is believed that methyl group donors help slow down the aging of the body. This group includes methionine, choline and betaine.

If your diet lacks the amino acid Phenylalanine, you can partially compensate for this deficiency by consuming the amino acid Tyrosine (Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid).

The norm of essential amino acids

Studying the composition of healthy products, you will understand that the amino acids in them are not found in one type, in a set. That is, one food product can contain several amino acids at once. Remember that animal food includes 9 valuable essential amino acids, so you cannot exclude it from your diet for a long time.

In order for the body to receive a daily dose of essential amino acids, it is enough to consume 500 g of high-quality fermented milk product or eat 300 g of good beef. Our table shows the rate of human consumption of essential amino acids. The optimal amount of amino acids in grams for one day is given, as well as examples and the required amount of food.

required daily volumes of essential amino acids for humans - content in grams per 100 g of product (amino acids in animal and plant products)

How do essential amino acids work?

Each substance performs certain functions in the human body, as a result, all organs and systems work harmoniously:

• Valine is an energy generator, supports nitrogen metabolism, regenerates tissue, organizes muscle metabolism;
• Histidine - maintains healthy joints, regulates tissue growth and stimulates regeneration processes, maintains normal hearing;
• Leucine is an energy supplier, muscle protector, regenerates all body tissues, reduces blood sugar, adds growth hormone;
• Arginine - reduces fat reserves and increases muscle mass, stimulates the production of growth hormone, anti-cancer substance, cleanses the liver, improves potency, lowers cholesterol and blood pressure;
• Isoleucine - promotes normal hemoglobin levels, increases endurance, controls blood sugar, helps restore muscles;
• Phenylalanine - transforms into Tyrosine, reduces appetite, relieves pain, improves memory, increases learning ability;
• Threonine - promotes the natural production of elastin with collagen, improves immune defense, is involved in the metabolism of fats and proteins, protects the liver from fat accumulation;
• Lysine - protects against genital herpes, helps calcium absorption, prevents osteoporosis and atherosclerosis, increases libido in women, treats hair, acts as an anabolic for muscle growth, improves memory and erection;
• Tryptophan - is involved in the production of serotonin, weakens the destructive effects of nicotine, reduces appetite, improves mood, increases the production of growth hormone, improves sleep;
• Methionine - promotes the processing rather than deposition of fats, improves the quality of digestion, saves pregnant women from toxicosis, is used in the treatment of arthritis, allergies, osteoporosis, reduces the harmful effects of radiation, and prevents the deposition of fat on the arteries and liver.

Consequences of essential amino acid deficiency

If the body constantly does not receive enough amino acids, this leads to many negative changes, including:

• increased risk of injury;
• deterioration in sports progress;
• decreased immune defense;
• growth retardation, body weight deficiency;
• metabolic disturbances.

Essential amino acids have different properties, each of them implements a separate useful function. All substances together help the human body to function normally without failures. This post contains the name of essential amino acids and identifies the main food sources. The information is intended for informational purposes only and has been verified by specialists. You already understand that the body receives essential amino acids by consuming certain foods. But you can also use dietary supplements. There are many noteworthy amino acid supplements on the market today.

All amino acids can be divided into two categories: essential and essential. The name speaks for itself. Essential amino acids are an “essential” component of the diet. In other words, our body cannot synthesize them on its own. Nonessential amino acids are those that can be created through metabolism from other amino acids and nutrients from food.

Essential amino acids include:

• Asparagine
• Glutamic acid
• Glycine
• Proline
• Serin

Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body, and therefore, if they are absent from food, the body begins to use reserve reserves of amino acids, for example, albumin. In the worst case scenario, the need for amino acids is met by muscle tissue - a process that is extremely undesirable for all bodybuilders and representatives of other sports.

Essential amino acids:

• Histidine

Essential amino acids

Histidine

Histidine is present in all tissues of the human body. It plays an important role in the formation of red and white blood cells and takes part in the exchange of information between the central nervous system and peripheral tissues. The immune system needs histidine to prevent autoimmune and allergic reactions, and in the stomach, with the participation of this amino acid, gastric juice is formed, which is necessary for normal digestion. Histidine deficiency contributes to the development of rheumatoid arthritis. The reserves of histidine in our body are depleted quite quickly, and therefore we must regularly obtain it from external sources.

Histidine is found in meat, dairy products, and grains (wheat, rice, rye).

Application: improving digestion. Sources: dairy products, meat, fish, rice, wheat, rye.

One of the main amino acids for bodybuilding, because isoleucine is one of the three amino acids. Isoleucine helps increase physical endurance and accelerates the recovery of muscle tissue, stimulates recovery after training and supports continuous replenishment of energy reserves.

Good sources of isoleucine include meat products, eggs, fish, nuts, seeds, peas and soy.

Promotes muscle recovery. Sources: chicken, cashews, fish, almonds, eggs, lentils, liver and meat.

The second amino acid from the BCAA class, which, along with isoleucine and valine, plays an important role in the processes of muscle tissue restoration. Leucine is converted into glucose more efficiently and faster than other amino acids, thereby stopping catabolic processes in muscles during grueling training sessions. It is also involved in muscle recovery after microdamage, regulates blood sugar levels, increases the secretion of growth hormone and promotes fat burning.

Sources of leucine: brown rice, beans, meat, nuts, soy flour and whole wheat.

Application: natural anabolic agent. Sources: All protein sources including brown rice, legumes, nuts and whole wheat.

This amino acid is known for its antiviral properties. With the participation of lysine, antibodies are synthesized that strengthen the immune system; lysine is also necessary for the formation of hormones that regulate the processes of growth and renewal of bone tissue. Thanks to its antiviral properties, lysine helps treat and/or prevent colds and herpes infections. This amino acid also stimulates the production of collagen and muscle protein, which leads to faster recovery.

Good sources of lysine include red meat, cheese, eggs, fish, milk, potatoes and yeast.

Application: fights fatigue and overtraining. Sources: cheese, eggs, milk, meat, yeast, potatoes and beans.

Helps process and utilize fats. Takes part in the formation of glutathione, cysteine ​​and, which contribute to the neutralization and removal of toxic substances from the body. Methionine is needed for the synthesis of creatine, a substance that increases endurance and performance of skeletal muscles. It is extremely important for the synthesis of collagen, which ensures healthy skin and nails. For people with allergies or arthritis, taking this amino acid may help reduce histamine levels in the body.

Sources of methionine: meat, eggs, fish, garlic, beans, lentils, onions, soybeans, seeds and yogurt.

Application: metabolism. Sources: meat, fish, legumes, eggs, garlic, lentils, onions, yogurt, and seeds.

An essential amino acid necessary for the normal functioning of the central nervous system. Since phenylalanine easily penetrates the blood-brain barrier, it has been successfully used to treat neurological diseases. This amino acid also helps control symptoms of depression and chronic pain. Research has shown that phenylalanine can also help treat vitiligo (white patches of depigmentation on the skin). Taking phenylalanine can improve memory and concentration, and also improves mood and emotional well-being. This amino acid is used in the treatment of Parkinson's disease and schizophrenia, but anyone wishing to take phenylalanine as a dietary supplement should consult a physician first. Persons with hypertension and/or migraines, as well as phenylketonuria, should avoid this amino acid and foods containing it in large quantities. High doses of phenylalanine can cause damage to nerve tissue.

Application: promotes maximum muscle contraction and relaxation. Sources: dairy products, almonds, avocados, nuts and seeds.

Vital for the formation of muscle tissue, collagen and elastin, and is involved in the creation of strong bone tissue and teeth (enamel). Stimulates growth processes and normalizes protein metabolism in the body. Supports almost all body systems: central nervous, cardiovascular and immune. Prevents fatty liver degeneration.

Given a healthy, balanced diet, threonine deficiency is unlikely, as it is present in dairy products, meat, grains, mushrooms and green vegetables.

Application: normalizes protein metabolism. Sources: Meat, dairy and eggs.

Tryptophan

Can be converted to niacin. Used in the synthesis of methionine and serotonin. Serotonin helps regulate blood pressure and respiratory function. An increase in the amount of serotonin in the body leads to calm and improved sleep.

One of the branched chain amino acids (BCAAs). Along with other BCAAs, it promotes normal tissue growth and repair. Provides the body with energy, thereby preventing the breakdown of muscle tissue, regulates glycemic levels. Valine is necessary for normal mental activity, is involved in the removal of excess nitrogen compounds by the liver, and, if necessary, can be transported to other organs and tissues. Valine may help treat liver and brain damage due to alcohol, drug, or substance abuse. This amino acid should be taken in combination with other BCAAs: leucine and isoleucine.

Natural sources of valine: meat, dairy products, mushrooms, peanuts, soy protein.

Application: promotes the restoration and growth of muscle tissue. Sources: dairy products, meat, mushrooms, soy, peanuts.

Nonessential amino acids

Alanin

Used as a source of energy, accelerating the conversion of glucose during energy metabolism, and also helps eliminate toxins from the liver. Prevents the breakdown of muscle tissue due to the so-called alanine cycle, which can be simplified as follows: glucose - pyruvate - alanine - pyruvate - glucose. The alanine cycle increases intracellular energy reserves and thereby prolongs cell life. During this cycle, excess nitrogen is removed from the body (urination). Alanine can relieve symptoms caused by prostate enlargement.

Sources of alanine: meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, fish and some plant foods such as avocados.

One of the most important amino acids in the human body, which is necessary for maintaining healthy joints, liver, skin and muscles. Due to its restorative properties, it can be used by people suffering from arthritis and other joint diseases. Strengthens the immune system by increasing the formation of T-lymphocytes. Participates in the synthesis of creatine and nitrogen metabolism, which is of enormous importance for every bodybuilder. It also helps reduce the proportion of fatty tissue in the body and accelerates the healing of damaged tissue. Although arginine is produced in the body, supplementation of the amino acid should be considered for those suffering from infection or burns, as well as for people wanting to lose weight, strengthen the immune system, or gain muscle mass.

Natural sources of arginine: meat, dairy, wheat, chocolate, coconut, gelatin, oats, peanuts, soy and walnuts.

Application: Helps increase muscle mass and reduce fat accumulation. Sources: whole wheat, nuts, seeds, rice, chocolate, raisins, and soy.

Asparagine

Closely related to aspartic acid, it is necessary for the functioning of the nervous system, in addition, our body uses this amino acid to synthesize ammonia.

Asparagine can be found in animal and plant foods: beef, poultry, whey, eggs, fish, dairy products, asparagus, potatoes, nuts, seeds, whole grains.

Aspartic acid, also known as L-aspartate

Helps improve metabolic processes and takes part in the synthesis of other amino acids, in particular arginine, lysine and isoleucine. Aspartic acid is of great importance for the synthesis of cellular energy, since it takes part in the formation of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a universal fuel that provides energy for all intracellular processes. Supports the nervous system by increasing concentrations of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), a substance that stimulates the production of neurotransmitters and other compounds necessary for normal brain function.

Aspartic acid can be synthesized in the body and sources include poultry, dairy products, beef and sugar cane.

Contained in beta-keratin, the main structural protein of skin, nails and hair. Cysteine ​​is best absorbed as N-acetyl cysteine ​​(NAC). Cysteine ​​may be effective in treating cancer, bronchitis, smoker's cough, cardiac pathology and septic shock.

This amino acid is produced in the body, but can also be obtained from meat, eggs, broccoli, onions, garlic and red peppers.

Application: promotes faster recovery and maintaining good physical shape. Sources: poultry, wheat, broccoli, eggs, garlic, onions and peppers.

Glutamic acid, also known as glutamate

The most important excitatory neurotransmitter of the brain and spinal cord. Plays a key role in the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, participates in the transport of potassium into the cerebrospinal fluid and across the blood-brain barrier. The brain can use glutamic acid as fuel. Can be converted to glutamine or GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).

Helps build and maintain muscle and remove toxins from the liver. Can cross the blood-brain barrier and, once converted to glutamic acid, act as a fuel for the brain. May also increase GABA levels. Glutamine is an essential source of energy for the nervous system. L-glutamine preparations are used mainly in bodybuilding, but when taking glutamine, people also note a general increase in strength and an improvement in their emotional background. Glutamine is formed by amination (addition of an amino group) of glutamic acid, which helps remove toxic ammonia from the liver - nitrogen does not turn into ammonia.

Glutamine also helps transport nitrogen to other organs and tissues, especially muscles, where it helps increase glycogen stores. This is of great importance in preventing the breakdown of muscle tissue. Up to 60% of the amino acids contained in muscles are glutamine. Glutamine is also important for the immune system and can help treat rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue and scleroderma.

Glutamine is found in many foods, but it is quickly destroyed during cooking. Raw parsley and spinach are excellent sources of this amino acid.

Application: An additional source of energy during a diet. Sources: Large amounts in all protein foods.

Glycine

This amino acid helps build muscle tissue, is involved in converting glucose into energy and increases creatine levels, which contributes to muscle gain. Collagen is approximately 30% glycine. In fact, without this amino acid, the body will not be able to heal wounds and other tissue damage.

Excellent sources of glycine are high-protein foods such as fish, meat, milk, beans or cheese.

Proline

Proline is needed for the formation of collagen and cartilage tissue. It stimulates collagen synthesis, which in turn promotes cartilage remodeling, and may therefore be beneficial for people suffering from injuries and joint diseases. This amino acid accelerates the healing process and is successfully used during the recovery period after injuries, such as burns.

Good sources of proline include meat, dairy products and eggs. Vegetarians should consider taking this amino acid through dietary supplements.

Serin

The main function of serine is to maintain the normal functioning of the brain and central nervous system. Proteins of nervous tissue and its protective cells contain this amino acid. It also takes part in the synthesis of serotonin, a chemical compound that has a significant effect on mood. In addition, serine is involved in the metabolism of fats and fatty acids and promotes the absorption of creatine.

Meat, dairy products, wheat (gluten), soy and peanuts are examples of good sources of this amino acid.

Tyrosine

This amino acid contributes to the normal functioning of the entire body. Tyrosine helps control appetite, and its deficiency can lead to lower blood pressure, slower metabolic processes, and increased fatigue. In addition, tyrosine promotes the formation of neurotransmitters, which has a great influence on the interaction of the human body with the environment.

Conclusion

Amino acids are of great importance for the functioning of the body. Supplements can be helpful, but sometimes they can cause side effects, so be sure to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before taking amino acid supplements. This is very important, since hidden health problems can worsen while taking amino acids. In addition, some of these amino acids are produced in the body, and many amino acids come from food, so it is important to determine whether additional supply of these nutrients is really necessary. It should be noted that amino acids are sold over the counter and are generally considered safe.