How Do You Spell METHIONINE?

Pronunciation: [mˈɛθɪˌɒna͡ɪn] (IPA)

Methionine is an essential amino acid necessary for proper growth and function of the body. Its spelling may be a bit tricky for those unfamiliar with chemical nomenclature. The word is spelled /məˈθaɪənin/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This is because the "e" is pronounced as a schwa sound, while the "th" is a dental fricative. The ending "-ine" is commonly used in chemical names for amines or nitrogen-containing organic molecules. So, despite its confusing spelling, methionine plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health.

METHIONINE Meaning and Definition

  1. Methionine is an essential sulfur-containing amino acid that is naturally occurring in both plants and animals. It is one of the twenty amino acids that make up proteins, the building blocks of life. Methionine is classified as an essential amino acid because it cannot be produced by the human body and therefore must be obtained through dietary sources.

    This amino acid plays a critical role in various biological processes within the body. It is involved in protein synthesis, serving as a key component in the formation of new proteins. Methionine also plays a vital role in the metabolism of fats and the production of important molecules, such as creatine, glutathione, and certain neurotransmitters.

    In addition to its integral role in protein synthesis and metabolism, methionine is known for its antioxidant properties. It helps protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals and oxidative stress. Methionine is also involved in the processing and detoxification of various chemicals and heavy metals within the body.

    Dietary sources rich in methionine include animal products such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Plant-based sources include legumes, tofu, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and certain vegetables. Methionine supplements are sometimes used in specific medical conditions or as part of nutritional supplementation therapies.

    However, it's important to note that excessive consumption of methionine can have adverse effects on health, as it has been linked to increased levels of homocysteine, a compound associated with cardiovascular diseases. It is recommended to maintain an appropriate balance and obtain methionine through a varied and balanced diet.

Common Misspellings for METHIONINE

Etymology of METHIONINE

The word "methionine" is derived from two elements: "methio-" and "-ine".

The first part, "methio-", comes from the amino acid being a sulfur-containing compound. It is derived from the ancient Greek word "méthion", meaning "of wine", "intoxication", or "spirits". This term was probably used due to the presence of sulfur compounds in wine.

The latter part, "-ine", is a common suffix in biochemistry used to indicate amino acids. This suffix originates from the Latin word "amīna" or "ammonia" and refers to compounds containing an amine group (-NH2).

Thus, the term "methionine" signifies a sulfur-containing amino acid with the amine group.

Similar spelling words for METHIONINE

  • (2-butyl-1-benzofuran-3-yl)-[4-(2-diethylaminoethyloxy)-3,5-diiodophenyl]methanone,
  • methenamine,
  • s-adenosyl-methionine,
  • s-adenosyl-l-methionine.

Plural form of METHIONINE is METHIONINES

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