cisteinë
Cysteine is an alpha-amino acid that is encoded by the UGU and UGC codons. It is one of the 20 proteinogenic amino acids used in the biosynthesis of proteins. Cysteine is unique among the amino acids because it contains a thiol group (-SH), which can form disulfide bonds with other cysteine residues. These disulfide bonds play a crucial role in the stabilization and folding of proteins. Cysteine is also involved in the synthesis of glutathione, a tripeptide that is important for detoxification processes in the body. In humans, cysteine is an essential amino acid, meaning it must be obtained through the diet as it cannot be synthesized by the body. It is found in various foods, including meat, eggs, dairy products, and legumes. Deficiencies in cysteine can lead to various health issues, including skin problems, hair loss, and anemia. Cysteine is also used in medical and pharmaceutical applications, such as in the treatment of certain metabolic disorders and as a precursor for the synthesis of other compounds.