Other Functions of Amino acids
Besides being used to build protein, amino acids are also important in certain other functions.
Some of them play a role as a neurotransmitter. For example, tryptophan is used to make serotonin which is a potent neurotransmitter and plays a role in depression.
Glycine is essential in formation of the heme molecule which binds to oxygen
Arginine is known to be a precursor for nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is now thought to play an important role as a vasodilator (PS Viagra is believed to act by making nitric oxide).
Amino acids are widely used in the food industry to make animal feed and soy based products. Some amino acids are also used to enhance flavor (Glutamic acid) and others act as sweeteners (Aspartame)
Medical uses
Amino acids play a vital role in a few medical disorders. L tryptophan is an important amino acid used to make serotonin and the majority of anti depressant available today are known to affect levels of serotonin.
Phenylalanine (L dopa) is used in the treatment for Parkinson’s disease.
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