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Cysteine
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Cysteine is a protein amino acid found naturally in most life forms. Although most cysteine is found in proteins, small amounts of free cysteine are found in body fluids and in plants. Cysteine is classified as a nonessential amino acid since it can be produced in the human body. Cysteine is unique in that it is one of the only amino acids that contains sulfur. This sulfur component enables cysteine to bond in a special way and maintain the structure of proteins in the body.
Cysteine is also a key component and building block of the antioxidant glutathione. The body also uses cysteine to produce taurine, another amino acid.
The human body can convert cysteine into glucose to use as a source of energy. As a protein cysteine helps to strengthen the protective lining of the stomach and intestines, which may very well prevent damage caused by drugs such as aspirin. In addition, cysteine may play an important role in the communication between immune system cells. Notwithstanding its many uses cysteine is rarely used as a dietary supplement. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), which contains cysteine, is more commonly used as a supplement.
Salim AS. Sulfhydryl-containing agents in the treatment of gastric bleeding induced by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Can J Surg 1993;36:53-8.
Droge W, Eck HP, Gander H, Mihm S. Modulation of lymphocyte functions and immune responses by cysteine and cysteine derivatives. Am J Med 1991;91:140S-4S.
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