CH3NH2COOH

CH3NH2COOH, more commonly known as alanine, is an alpha-amino acid. Its chemical formula can be written as C3H7NO2. Alanine is one of the 20 standard amino acids that are incorporated into proteins during translation. It is classified as a nonpolar amino acid due to its methyl side chain. The structure of alanine features a central alpha-carbon atom bonded to an amino group (NH2), a carboxyl group (COOH), a hydrogen atom (H), and a methyl group (CH3). This arrangement makes it chiral, with L-alanine being the predominant stereoisomer found in biological systems.

Alanine plays a significant role in metabolism. It is involved in glucose metabolism and can be synthesized from pyruvate. One of its key functions is in the transport of ammonia from peripheral tissues to the liver via the glucose-alanine cycle. This cycle helps prevent the buildup of toxic ammonia in the muscles. Alanine is also a component of various peptides and proteins, contributing to their structural integrity and function. It can be found in a wide range of foods, including meat, dairy products, and legumes.