türosiinil

Tyrosine, also known as tūrosiinil in Finnish, is a non-essential amino acid with the chemical formula C9H11NO3. It is one of the twenty standard amino acids used by organisms to synthesize proteins. Tyrosine is synthesized in the body from phenylalanine, another amino acid. It plays a crucial role as a precursor to several important biomolecules.

Key functions of tyrosine include its role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine, which are vital for mood regulation, stress response, and cognitive functions. It is also a precursor to thyroid hormones, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which regulate metabolism. Furthermore, tyrosine is essential for the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color.

Dietary sources of tyrosine include protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, eggs, nuts, and legumes. While the body can synthesize tyrosine, adequate dietary intake is important for optimal physiological function. Conditions like phenylketonuria (PKU) are genetic disorders where the body cannot properly metabolize phenylalanine, requiring a restricted diet that limits phenylalanine intake, and consequently tyrosine. Research also explores the potential benefits of tyrosine supplementation for cognitive performance, particularly under stressful conditions, though its efficacy is a subject of ongoing study.