Serine is a non-essential amino acid produced within the body, aiding the central nervous system, brain function, immune system, and serotonin production. It is found in meat, peanuts, and dairy products, and supplements are available. L-serine deficiency is a rare inherited condition with neurological symptoms.
Serine is a non-essential amino acid, which means that it is necessary for the human body to function properly, but it does not need to come from an external source. Instead, it is usually produced within the body from metabolites, such as glycine. Serine, also known as Ser, is a proteinogenic amino acid. This means that it is one of the 22 amino acids that are part of the standard human genetic code. The word proteinogenic is derived from the Latin for “building proteins.”
In 1865, this amino acid was isolated for the first time from the protein contained in silk. Silk has a high concentration, and the amino acid was named using the Latin word sericum, meaning silk. By 1902, the chemical structure of serine had been determined.
The main uses of serine in the human body are to aid in the function of the central nervous system (CNS), as well as in the general operation of the brain. It is present in the myelin sheaths that cover the nerves located in the brain. Without enough serine, these sheaths thin out or disappear entirely, making the nerves unable to carry messages to other parts of the body.
This amino acid also aids in the production of antibodies and immunoglobulin, both of which are essential for a healthy immune system. Additionally, the presence of serine is required to create tryptophan, which in turn is used to produce serotonin. The brain uses serotonin to regulate mood, and depression and anxiety are linked to a lack of serotonin or tryptophan in the body.
In order for the human body to produce this amino acid, folic acid and vitamins B3 and B6 must be present. These compounds occur naturally in meat, peanuts, and dairy products, but a diet high in processed foods can lead to a deficiency. Supplements are available in powder and tablet form, but are more commonly found as part of a combination supplement, such as a nuttritional sports drink.
Although rare, it is possible for the human body to be naturally deficient in this amino acid. It is an inherited condition that prevents the biosynthesis of L-serine from occurring. The condition presents in children with symptoms such as psychomotor retardation and seizures. The symptoms of this disorder manifest as a neurological condition, and many children are not tested for L-serine deficiency. A simple cerebrospinal fluid test is usually enough to determine if this disorder is the underlying cause of the symptoms.
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