ASPARAGINIC ACID Meaning and
Definition
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Asparaginic acid is a naturally occurring amino acid and organic compound that is commonly found in various plants, most notably in asparagus. It belongs to the class of amino acids known as non-proteinogenic or non-standard amino acids, which means it is not used in protein synthesis. Asparaginic acid is synthesized in the asparagus plant through the process of photosynthesis.
Chemically, asparaginic acid is classified as an alpha-amino acid, containing an amino group, a carboxylic acid group, and a side chain. Its chemical formula is C4H7NO4. It is also known by other names, such as aspartic acid or asparagine.
Asparaginic acid plays a crucial role in biological processes. It acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, participating in functions related to the regulation of synaptic activity and the transmission of nerve impulses. Additionally, asparaginic acid is involved in the urea cycle, a metabolic pathway responsible for eliminating excess nitrogen from the body.
In the food industry, asparaginic acid is utilized as a flavor enhancer due to its ability to impart a strong umami taste. It is commonly used in the production of processed foods, beverages, and condiments to enhance their savory flavors. Asparaginic acid can also be found in dietary supplements, where it is primarily used for its potential health benefits.
Overall, asparaginic acid is an important compound with diverse roles in both biological and industrial contexts.
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Aspartic, or aminosuccinic acid.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ASPARAGINIC ACID
- zsparaginic acid
- ssparaginic acid
- wsparaginic acid
- qsparaginic acid
- aaparaginic acid
- azparaginic acid
- axparaginic acid
- adparaginic acid
- aeparaginic acid
- awparaginic acid
- asoaraginic acid
- aslaraginic acid
- as-araginic acid
- as0araginic acid
- aspzraginic acid
- aspsraginic acid
- aspwraginic acid
- aspqraginic acid
- aspaeaginic acid
- aspadaginic acid
Etymology of ASPARAGINIC ACID
The word "asparaginic acid" is derived from the plant name "asparagus" and the suffix "-inic acid".
The plant name "asparagus" originates from the Greek word "asparagos", which was further derived from the Persian word "asparag", meaning "shoot" or "sprout". Asparagus is a perennial flowering plant that is well-known for its edible shoots.
The suffix "-inic acid" typically denotes a carboxylic acid derived from a specific compound. In this case, asparaginic acid is an amino acid and a derivative of asparagus. The suffix "-inic acid" indicates that it is a carboxylic acid specifically derived from asparagus.
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