Amino Acids in Nutrition and Metabolism

Indispensable or essential amino acids that the body needs but cannot synthesize must be obtained from the diet. These are involved in functions such as the production of enzymes and hormones, immune response, cell turnover and repair, and maintenance of the musculoskeletal system. Skeletal muscle represents the largest reservoir of amino acids that contributes to protein turnover and homeostasis. Leucine is an essential amino acid metabolized in skeletal muscle. This branched-chain amino acid (BCAA) regulates amino acid balance and protein metabolism, both as a metabolic substrate and as a precursor of protein synthesis via translation initiation signaling events. Adequate protein intake is needed to maintain metabolism, nutritional status, and health.