Sulfur Containing Amino Acids Flashcards, test questions and answers

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What is Sulfur Containing Amino Acids?

Sulfur containing amino acids, such as cysteine and methionine, are essential components of proteins in all living organisms. They play an important role in many physiological processes including cell signaling and metabolism. Cysteine is the main component of a number of antioxidants, while methionine is involved in the synthesis of other sulfur-containing compounds like creatine and taurine. In addition to their structural roles within proteins, these amino acids also form disulfide bridges that give additional stability to protein structure – this type of covalent bonding has been shown to be especially important for maintaining appropriate tertiary structures. In terms of human nutrition, both vitamins B6 and B12 are necessary for the proper binding of sulfur-containing amino acid molecules; thus if dietary intake is inadequate, deficiencies may result which can lead to various health problems. Additionally, it has been proposed that certain diets lacking adequate amounts of these two vitamins could theoretically lead to reduced levels or even deficiencies in critical sulfur-containing amino acids like cysteine or methionine due to insufficient formation rates from alternative pathways (e.g., transsulfuration). Consequently researchers have concluded that correct nutrient intakes should include foods rich in vitamin B6 and/or B12 so as not only provide sufficient amounts but also ensure optimal functioning via efficient absorption by cells in the body. Finally, some studies suggest that diet supplementation with specific plant sources which contain high levels of sulfates (like garlic or onion) may increase overall concentrations and bioavailabilityof key sulfur-containing amino acids further research on this topic is ongoing however more concrete evidence will need to emerge before any definitive conclusions can be drawn regarding potential benefits associated with dietary supplementation strategies involving such food items.