Transamination
Definition
Transamination is a process where amino groups from amino acids are transferred to other compounds, helping in synthesizing new amino acids in the body.
Scientific / Technical Definition
Transamination is a biochemical process involving the transfer of an amino group from an amino acid to a keto acid, catalyzed by aminotransferase enzymes. This process is crucial in the metabolism of nitrogen in the body and the synthesis of non-essential amino acids.
Benefits
- Facilitates the creation of non-essential amino acids.
- Helps in the deamination process that is essential for producing energy from protein.
- Plays a role in removing excess nitrogen from the body.
Examples
- The transamination of oxaloacetate with glutamate to form aspartate and α-ketoglutarate.
- The transamination of pyruvate with glutamate to form alanine and α-ketoglutarate.
Additional Information
- importance: Transamination is important for maintaining the nitrogen balance in the body and enabling the biosynthesis of amino acids that are critical for protein synthesis.
References
Last updated: 10/26/2024