Alanine
Alanine is known to be one of the primary amino acids discovered and synthesized long before its isolation from natural sources. Back in 1850, this amino acid was synthesized by Adolph Strecker from acetaldehyde through its condensation using ammonia and hydrogen cyanide. Only in a quarter of a century, Alanine was discovered in natural sources - in proteins.
Chemical structure of Alanine
Chemical and physical properties of Alanine
IUPAC Name: (2S)-2-Aminopropanoic acid
Symbol: Three-letter code - Ala. One-letter code - A
Molecular Weight (Molar Mass): 89.09318 g/mol
Molecular Formula (Structural Formula): C3H7NO2
Canonical SMILES: CC(C(=O)O)N
Isomeric SMILES: C[C@@H](C(=O)O)N
InChIKey Identifier: QNAYBMKLOCPYGJ-SNQCPAJUDI
CAS Number: 56-41-7
MDL Number: MFCD00064410
Melting point: 314-316 °C
RNA codons: GCU, GCC, GCA, GCG
Solubility in water: 166.5 g/1 L (25 °C); pKa - 2,34; pKb - 9,69
Rf value in n-butanol/acetic acid/water = 12:3:5 - 0.38
2D Molfile: Get the molfile
3D PDB file: Get the PDB file
Other names: L-alpha-Alanine; (S)-Alanine; L-2-Aminopropionic acid; (S)-2-Aminopropionic acid; L-α-Aminopropionic acid
Functions of L-alanine in the body
Alanine is basically a non-essential amino acid sometimes found in high levels in its free state in human plasma. This amino acid is synthesized by reductive amination of pyruvate, and participates in sugar and acid metabolism. It is also known for increasing immunity and providing energy for brain and central nervous system, let alone the muscle tissue. In addition, Alanine plays a central role in glucose-Alanine cycle taking place between tissues and liver.
In a nutshell, Alanine helps your body convert the simple sugar called glucose into energy you need, while eliminating excess toxins from your liver. As you know, amino acids are the building blocks of proteins, thus becoming a key to building muscles, and Alanine is also there in the list, helping protect cells from being damaged during intense physical activity. Then, due to the fact that fluid in the prostate gland contains this amino acid, the suggestions were made that Alanine may help treat benign prostatic hyperplasia, which is the condition in which the prostate enlarges.
In trials designed to assess the effect on high cholesterol levels of combinations of different amino acids, alanine was found to have a cholesterol-reducing effect in the serum of experimental animals (rats), when in combination with arginine and glycine. Levels were reduced by 20% when arginine and alanine alone were administered, and by usually included in amino acid compound tablets; where daily intake levels of between 200 mg and 600 mg daily were suggested.
For women, alanine supports muscle maintenance and metabolic health, which is especially important as they age. Female athletes also benefit from alanine-rich foods for muscle repair and energy. Similarly, menopausal women and those focusing on mental health can find nutritional support in these foods.
Men should ensure they consume sufficient alanine for muscle health, libido, and overall well-being. Including a variety of protein sources like chicken, beef, fish, dairy, eggs, beans, and lentils is essential.
Additional functions
Antioxidant Properties. Some studies suggest that alanine, along with other amino acids, may have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, potentially reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall cellular health.
Collaboration with BCAAs. Alanine works synergistically with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), particularly leucine, isoleucine, and valine. This collaboration is essential for muscle protein synthesis and energy production during exercise.
In summary, alanine is a versatile amino acid with multifaceted roles in energy metabolism, muscle health, liver function, and potentially antioxidant processes. As research continues, a holistic approach to amino acid intake, along with a well-balanced diet, contributes to overall health and well-being.
Dietary sources of L-alanine
As it was mentioned above, Alanine is a non-essential amino acid, i.e. a healthy body can produce it for its own needs. However, it may become an essential amino acid (which means you would need a dietary supplementation) if your body is unable to manufacture it for some reasons. In order to avoid this deficiency, individuals with low-protein diets or eating disorders, as well as those who suffer from liver disease or diabetes, may need to take supplements of this amino acid. To be healthy, human body requires Alanine to process the B vitamin.
Naturally, you are able to get this amino acid from such sources as meat, eggs, poultry, dairy products, and fish. Vegetarians are recommended to eat protein-rich plant foods - for example, avocado, as they also supply Alanine.
There are no specific foods that need to be avoided to manage alanine intake. However, prioritizing natural, unprocessed protein sources is generally recommended for optimal health benefits.
beta-Alanine
This is the only naturally occurring β-amino acid. It is found in its free state in the brain. It is a component of carnosine, anserine and of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) which is itself a component of coenzyme A. The function of carnosine and anserine is unknown.
beta-Alanine is metabolized to acetic acid, and in plants and micro-organisms it is formed from aspartic acis. Therapeutically it is useful to assist in synthesis of pantothenic acid.
Alanine transaminase (ALT)
Alanine transaminase (ALT), also known as alanine aminotransferase, is a vital enzyme primarily present in the liver, though it is also found in other parts of the body. Enzymes, acting as catalysts, facilitate various bodily processes, with ALT being one among thousands with crucial functions.
Commonly known as ALT, alanine aminotransferase, SGPT, or GPT, the ALT blood test is recommended in various medical situations. It serves as an initial diagnostic tool for liver-related symptoms and is included in urgent care or emergency room evaluations. Periodic ALT testing is suggested for those at higher risk of liver disease, even in the absence of symptoms.
An ALT blood test measures the ALT levels in your blood, aiding in the assessment of liver health. Elevated ALT levels often indicate liver damage, prompting healthcare providers to include it in comprehensive panels like liver enzyme or metabolic panels for a more detailed health overview.
While ALT testing may be part of routine medical checkups, its widespread use lacks clear benefits over potential downsides, such as increased medical costs and unnecessary procedures. Follow-up ALT tests are valuable for monitoring liver disease progression or assessing medication side effects affecting the liver.
The lab report will indicate if your ALT levels are within the normal range, usually between 7 to 56 U/L of blood. Typically, ALT levels are higher in men compared to women and children, and higher in younger individuals compared to older ones.
Interpreting ALT test results involves considering individual factors, including exercise, medications, sex, menstruation, age, and body mass index. Elevated ALT levels can signal liver conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis, but multiple factors may contribute, and mild to moderate elevations may indicate chronic diseases.
Understanding ALT levels requires looking at the entire panel, as high ALT alone doesn't pinpoint the underlying cause. A conversation with your doctor is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of your ALT test results. Key questions to discuss include ALT level interpretation, the normalcy of other measurements, implications for overall health, and recommendations for follow-up tests, along with their benefits and risks.
In summary, ALT testing is a valuable tool in assessing liver health, but its interpretation requires a holistic approach, considering various factors for a comprehensive understanding of your overall health.