tryptophan

views updated Jun 08 2018

tryptophan An essential amino acid. In addition to its role in protein synthesis, it is the precursor of the neurotransmitter 5‐hydroxytryptamine (serotonin) and of niacin. Average intakes of tryptophan are more than adequate to meet niacin requirements without the need for any preformed niacin in the diet.

It is destroyed by acid, and therefore not measured when proteins are hydrolysed by acid before analysis; determination of tryptophan requires alkaline or enzymic hydrolysis of the protein.

A Dictionary of Food and Nutrition DAVID A. BENDER

tryptophan

views updated Jun 11 2018
A Dictionary of Plant Sciences MICHAEL ALLABY

tryptophan

views updated Jun 11 2018

tryptophan (trip-tŏ-fan) n. an essential amino acid. See also amino acid.

A Dictionary of Nursing

tryptophan

views updated May 29 2018

tryptophan A heterocyclic, non-polar, alpha amino acid.

A Dictionary of Zoology MICHAEL ALLABY

tryptophan

views updated May 14 2018

tryptophan See amino acid.

A Dictionary of Biology

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tryptophan

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