Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid that is present in both plant and animal proteins. Its chemical formula is C4H8N2O3, and its molecular weight is 132.12. The spelling of asparagine follows the conventions of English spelling, with the phonetic transcription being /əˈspærədʒɪn/ or uh-spar-uh-jeen. The first syllable is pronounced with an unstressed schwa sound, followed by the stressed syllable "spar." The final syllable is pronounced with a soft "j" sound and the stress on the second-to-last syllable.
Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid that is naturally occurring in protein-rich foods and is also synthesized by the human body. It is classified as a polar, uncharged amino acid due to its side chain containing an amide group. Structurally, asparagine consists of a central carbon atom bonded to an amino group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and an R-group. The R-group in asparagine is composed of a chain of three carbon atoms with a side chain ending in an amide group.
The primary function of asparagine is to serve as a building block in protein synthesis. It plays a crucial role in the protein structure, especially in the formation of hydrogen bonds that stabilize the protein's three-dimensional conformation. Asparagine also participates in various metabolic pathways, including the synthesis of other amino acids, purines, and pyrimidines.
In addition to its role in protein synthesis, asparagine has been linked to several physiological processes. It is involved in the regulation of the central nervous system, as it acts as a neurotransmitter precursor and is thought to play a role in neurotransmission. Moreover, asparagine has a role in the immune response, as it affects the proliferation and activation of immune cells.
Overall, asparagine is an important amino acid that contributes to the structure and function of proteins, as well as participates in various biochemical processes throughout the body.
A crystalline substance obtained from asparagus.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "asparagine" has its origins in the Latin language. It comes from the combination of two Latin words: "asparagus" and "ina". "Asparagus" originally referred to the vegetable asparagus, while "ina" denotes a substance or chemical compound. Asparagine was first discovered and isolated in 1806 from asparagus juice, hence the name.