L-α-Aminoadipate

L-α-Aminoadipate is an amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of lysine, an essential amino acid. It is a non-proteinogenic amino acid, meaning it is not used in the construction of proteins. L-α-Aminoadipate is also known as α-aminoadipic acid or 2-aminoadipic acid.

Structure and Properties

L-α-Aminoadipate has a linear structure with a carboxyl group at one end and an amino group at the other. It is a diamino acid, meaning it contains two amino groups. The molecule is chiral, and the L-isomer is the one that is biologically active.

The molecular formula of L-α-Aminoadipate is C6H11NO4, and its molecular weight is 161.16 g/mol. It is a white, crystalline solid that is soluble in water.

Biosynthesis

In the biosynthesis of lysine, L-α-Aminoadipate is synthesized from homocitrate through several enzymatic steps. The enzymes involved in this process include aminoadipate aminotransferase, aminoadipate reductase, and saccharopine dehydrogenase.

Biological Role

In addition to its role in lysine biosynthesis, L-α-Aminoadipate has been found to have other biological roles. It is a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, and it has been implicated in several neurological disorders, including epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease.

See Also

• Amino acid
• Biosynthesis
• Lysine
• Neurotransmitter