acidsIsoleucine

Isoleucine is one of the twenty standard amino acids that are used by living organisms to synthesize proteins. It is classified as a nonpolar amino acid with an aliphatic side chain. Isoleucine is also an essential amino acid, meaning that it cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained from the diet. The chemical formula for isoleucine is C6H13NO2. Its structure features a chiral center at the alpha-carbon and another chiral center at the beta-carbon. This results in four possible stereoisomers, but only L-isoleucine is found in proteins.

Isoleucine plays several important roles in the body. It is involved in muscle metabolism, energy regulation, and the synthesis of hemoglobin. Along with leucine and valine, isoleucine is a branched-chain amino acid (BCAA). BCAAs are thought to have a variety of physiological effects, including promoting muscle growth, reducing muscle breakdown, and improving exercise performance. Isoleucine is also a precursor for the synthesis of some other important molecules, such as neurotransmitters.

Dietary sources of isoleucine include a wide range of protein-rich foods. Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and legumes are all good sources. Plant-based sources also include nuts, seeds, and grains. Deficiency in isoleucine is rare in individuals with a balanced diet but can occur in cases of severe malnutrition or certain metabolic disorders.