Description: Glutamine is one of the 20 amino acids encoded by the standard genetic code. Its side-chain is an amide formed by replacing the side-chain hydroxyl of glutamic acid with an amine functional group. Therefore, it can be considered the amide of glutamic acid. Its codons are CAA and CAG. In human blood, glutamine is the most abundant free amino acid, with a concentration of about 500-900 µmol/l.[ Glutamine plays a role in a variety of biochemical functions including: • Protein synthesis, as any other amino acid• Regulation of acid-base balance in the kidney by producing ammonium• Cellular energy, as a source, next to glucose• Nitrogen donation for many anabolic processes• Carbon donation, as a source, refilling the Citric acid cycle. |
