aspartaattia

Aspartaatti, or aspartate, refers to the salts or esters of aspartic acid, the acidic amino acid. The term covers compounds such as sodium aspartate, potassium aspartate, calcium aspartate, and magnesium aspartate.

Chemically, aspartic acid contains two carboxyl groups. In its salts, the carboxyl groups are deprotonated, giving a dianion at physiological pH, while the amino group remains protonated under normal conditions.

Biologically, aspartate participates in amino acid metabolism and energy production. It can be transaminated to form oxaloacetate, linking amino acid metabolism with the citric acid cycle and gluconeogenesis. It also serves as a substrate in the urea cycle and has been described as a potential neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, though its precise signaling role is less well defined than that of glutamate. Aspartate is also a precursor for the amino acid asparagine.

Occurrence and production, in foods and in the body, involve natural presence in dietary proteins. Aspartate salts are manufactured synthetically for use as nutritional supplements or pharmaceutical excipients. They may be included in products to supply minerals (for example, calcium or magnesium) or to support metabolic processes in certain formulations.

Uses and regulation vary by salt and context. Aspartate salts are generally considered safe when used as intended and in appropriate amounts. High-dose supplements can cause gastrointestinal upset or interact with kidney function in susceptible individuals. People with certain metabolic disorders should consult medical guidance. As with aspartame, discussions about safety often focus on specific compounds; the general aspartate molecule and its salts are distinct from privatized sweeteners and are evaluated separately in regulatory contexts.