[Taurine: a particular aminoacid with multiple functions]

Taurine has multiple biological and metabolic functions: this particular B-amino acid is an antioxidant, it conjugates biliary acids, detoxifies some xenobiotics and modulates intracellular calcium levels. Moreover, taurine plays an important part in osmoregulation, neuromodulation and stabilization of the membranes. Taurine is looked upon as an "essential amino acid" in some particular situations associating inadequate intake or synthesis and major loss of biliary salts. Clinically, taurine has been used with varying degrees of success in the treatment of several pathologies (cardiovascular diseases, cystic fibrosis, alcoholism, retinal degeneration, hepatic disorders). Being found in the secretions of the mammalian reproductive tract, it preserves the motility of the spermatozoa, supports their capacitation, improves the chances of success of fertilization and the early embryonic development. This is why it can be found in some culture media for in vitro fertilization.