treoninres

Threonine is one of the twenty standard amino acids found in proteins. Its chemical formula is C4H9NO3. It is an essential amino acid, meaning that the human body cannot synthesize it and must obtain it through diet. Threonine contains both an amino group and a hydroxyl group, making it a polar amino acid. Its side chain is a simple ethyl group with a hydroxyl group attached to the second carbon. This hydroxyl group can participate in hydrogen bonding and phosphorylation, which are important for protein structure and function.

Threonine plays several vital roles in the body. It is a component of collagen, elastin, and tooth enamel. It is involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and the synthesis of phospholipids and antibodies. Threonine is also a precursor to two other amino acids, glycine and methionine. Furthermore, it is a component of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine.

Dietary sources of threonine include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts. Deficiency in threonine is rare in individuals consuming a balanced diet but can lead to fatigue and metabolic disturbances. Excessive intake is not generally considered harmful as the body can metabolize surplus amino acids. Threonine is a chiral molecule, existing as two enantiomers, L-threonine and D-threonine. L-threonine is the form that is incorporated into proteins.