SELENOMETHIONINE Meaning and
Definition
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Selenomethionine is an organic compound that belongs to the group of naturally occurring amino acids. It is considered an essential amino acid since it cannot be synthesized by the human body and must be obtained through dietary sources. Selenomethionine is a selenium-containing amino acid, where selenium is an essential trace element required for many physiological functions.
In its chemical structure, selenomethionine closely resembles the amino acid methionine, except that a selenium atom replaces the sulfur atom present in methionine. This substitution allows selenomethionine to possess unique properties and functions that differ from its sulfur-containing counterpart.
This compound is commonly found in various dietary sources such as grains, nuts, and legumes, as well as in some animal products. It serves as a building block for proteins and enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, cellular growth, DNA synthesis, and maintaining the overall health of the immune system.
Selenomethionine is also known for its role in supporting the activity of selenoproteins, a group of specialized proteins that contain selenium as an essential component. These proteins are involved in various biological processes, including thyroid hormone metabolism, redox regulation, and protecting cellular components from oxidative stress.
Selenomethionine is available in supplemental form and is widely used as a dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits. However, it is important to note that excessive intake of selenium, including selenomethionine, can have negative effects on health, so it is vital to adhere to recommended dosage guidelines.
Common Misspellings for SELENOMETHIONINE
- aelenomethionine
- zelenomethionine
- xelenomethionine
- delenomethionine
- eelenomethionine
- welenomethionine
- swlenomethionine
- sslenomethionine
- sdlenomethionine
- srlenomethionine
- s4lenomethionine
- s3lenomethionine
- sekenomethionine
- sepenomethionine
- seoenomethionine
- selwnomethionine
- selsnomethionine
- seldnomethionine
- selrnomethionine
- sel4nomethionine
Etymology of SELENOMETHIONINE
The word "Selenomethionine" comes from the combination of two components:
1. Seleno-: It is derived from the Greek word "selḗnē", meaning "moon". In scientific terms, "seleno-" is a prefix used to indicate the presence of selenium, a chemical element with the atomic number 34. Since selenium was named after the moon due to its resemblance to silver and association with the moon's goddess, the prefix "seleno-" is used in compounds that contain selenium.
2. Methionine: It is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. The term "methionine" originates from the Greek word "methy", meaning "wine", and "thi-" referring to sulfur. As an amino acid, methionine contains a sulfur atom, which is represented by the "thi-" component in its name.
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