Amino Acids in Health and Endocrine Function.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Human Physiology
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Dietary amino acids are essential for numerous physiological processes.
• Specific amino acids have demonstrated varied effects on cardiovascular health, metabolic disorders, and endocrine regulation.
• Understanding these diverse roles is critical for health and disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the multifaceted roles of dietary amino acids in human health.
• To elucidate the impact of various amino acids on blood pressure, diabetes, and endocrine functions.
• To review the mechanisms through which amino acids modulate key physiological pathways.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on amino acid metabolism and function.
• Analysis of studies investigating the effects of specific amino acids on physiological parameters.
• Examination of the interplay between amino acids and hormonal signaling pathways.

Main Results:

• Branched-chain amino acids can elevate blood pressure, while arginine and citrulline may reduce it.
• Certain amino acids influence diabetes outcomes, with branched-chain amino acids, phenylalanine, and tyrosine implicated in adverse effects, whereas arginine and citrulline show benefits.
• Amino acids like leucine, glutamine, and D-aspartate impact muscle health via the mTOR pathway.
• Amino acids interact with endocrine functions, affecting glucocorticoids, thyroid, GLP-1, ghrelin, IGF-1, and leptin levels.
• Leucine can mitigate dexamethasone's effects on muscle protein, and amino acid transporters are vital for thyroid function.
• Oral administration of several amino acids increases GLP-1 and ghrelin levels, with cysteine decreasing ghrelin in mice.
• Branched-chain amino acids raise IGF-1 in adults, while tryptophan and phenylalanine increase it in infants.
• Leptin levels can be elevated by branched-chain amino acids, and leucine restriction improves leptin sensitivity.

Conclusions:

• Dietary amino acids exert profound and varied effects on human health, spanning cardiovascular, metabolic, and endocrine systems.
• Specific amino acids present therapeutic potential or risks, necessitating tailored dietary considerations.
• Further research into amino acid-mediated pathways can unlock novel strategies for health optimization and disease prevention.