Transamination meaning

Transamination is a process in which an amino group is transferred from an amino acid to a keto acid, forming a new amino acid.


Transamination definitions

Word backwards noitanimasnart
Part of speech Transamination is a noun.
Syllabic division trans-am-i-na-tion
Plural The plural of the word "transamination" is transaminations.
Total letters 14
Vogais (3) a,i,o
Consonants (5) t,r,n,s,m

Transamination is a biological process where an amino group is transferred from an amino acid to a ketoacid, typically catalyzed by enzymes known as aminotransferases. This reaction is crucial for the synthesis of non-essential amino acids in the human body.

Aminotransferases are enzymes that facilitate the transfer of an amino group from one molecule to another. The most well-known aminotransferase is alanine transaminase (ALT), which plays a vital role in amino acid metabolism.

Importance of Transamination

Transamination is essential for the synthesis of non-essential amino acids. These amino acids are necessary for various biological functions, including protein synthesis, energy production, and neurotransmitter regulation. Without transamination, the body would not be able to produce these vital molecules.

Mechanism of Transamination

During transamination, the amino group from an amino acid is transferred to a ketoacid, forming a new amino acid and a new ketoacid. This process allows for the conversion of one amino acid into another, contributing to the diversity of amino acids available for various biological processes.

Role in Nitrogen Metabolism

Transamination plays a crucial role in nitrogen metabolism by allowing the body to remove excess nitrogen in the form of urea. By transferring amino groups to ketoacids, the body can safely excrete nitrogen waste products, preventing toxicity.

Overall, transamination is a fundamental process in amino acid metabolism, playing a vital role in the synthesis of non-essential amino acids and nitrogen metabolism. Without this process, the body would struggle to maintain proper amino acid levels and nitrogen balance, impacting overall health and biological functioning.


Transamination Examples

  1. The process of transamination involves the transfer of an amino group from an amino acid to a keto acid.
  2. Transamination plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of non-essential amino acids in the human body.
  3. Liver enzymes are involved in the transamination of amino acids during protein metabolism.
  4. Some genetic disorders can impact the efficiency of transamination reactions in the body.
  5. Transamination is an essential step in the synthesis of neurotransmitters like glutamate and GABA.
  6. Patients with liver disease may exhibit abnormalities in transamination levels in blood tests.
  7. Biochemical pathways like the alanine cycle rely on transamination reactions for energy production.
  8. Researchers study transamination to understand metabolic pathways and treat related disorders.
  9. Transaminase enzymes are responsible for catalyzing transamination reactions in biological systems.
  10. Understanding the mechanism of transamination can provide insights into amino acid metabolism.


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  • Updated 19/05/2024 - 22:53:03