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Updated: Aug 2, 2025
08:14
Extraction of Non-Protein Amino Acids from Cyanobacteria for Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analysis
Published on: December 9, 2022
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d-Amino acids in biological systems.
Siqi Du1, Michael Wey1, Daniel W Armstrong1
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, USA.
Chirality
|April 19, 2023
Summary
D-amino acids, once thought rare, are vital in all life forms, from microbes to humans. Their diverse biochemical roles and pathways are crucial, with significant implications for human health and disease.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- D-amino acids and their containing peptides/proteins are increasingly recognized in biological systems.
- Their presence and functions differ across evolutionary scales, from microorganisms to complex organisms.
- Understanding these molecules is crucial for comprehending fundamental life processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the occurrence and biochemical roles of D-amino acids in various living systems.
- To outline known biosynthetic and regulatory pathways for D-amino acids.
- To highlight the significance of D-amino acids in human health and disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on D-amino acids.
- Analysis of biosynthetic and regulatory pathways.
- Compilation of data on D-amino acid functions across different taxa.
Main Results:
- D-amino acids are present and functionally important in diverse organisms, including plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates.
- Established pathways for D-amino acid biosynthesis and regulation are detailed.
- Specific roles in human disease are identified and discussed.
Conclusions:
- D-amino acids are integral components of biological systems with diverse and significant roles.
- Further research into D-amino acid pathways and functions will enhance our understanding of life.
- The involvement of D-amino acids in human disease warrants continued investigation.
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