Lysine

Lysine is an amino acid that is essential for humans. It is one of the nine essential amino acids that the human body cannot synthesize and must be obtained from the diet. Lysine is important in the production of proteins, enzymes, and antibodies, and plays a vital role in calcium absorption and collagen formation.

Chemical Structure

Lysine is an α-amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins. Its chemical structure is characterized by a side chain composed of a carbon (C) atom bound to four hydrogen atoms (H), a nitrogen (N) atom, and two oxygen (O) atoms. The chemical formula of lysine is C6H14N2O2.

Biological Role

Lysine plays several important roles in the body. It is involved in the production of hormones, enzymes, and antibodies, and it helps in calcium absorption, which is crucial for bone health. Lysine also plays a role in the formation of collagen, a protein that provides structure to skin, bones, and connective tissues.

Dietary Sources

Lysine is found in a variety of foods, particularly in protein-rich foods. Good sources of lysine include meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, legumes, and soy products.

Deficiency

A deficiency in lysine can lead to a variety of health problems, including fatigue, nausea, dizziness, loss of appetite, anemia, and reproductive disorders. In severe cases, a lysine deficiency can result in a compromised immune system and an increased susceptibility to infection.

Supplementation

Lysine supplements are often used to prevent and treat cold sores (herpes simplex labialis), as lysine can inhibit the replication of the herpes simplex virus. Lysine supplements can also be used to improve calcium absorption and reduce the loss of calcium in the urine.

See Also

• Amino acid
• Protein
• Enzyme
• Antibody
• Calcium
• Collagen