Plasma amino acids
What are Plasma Amino Acids?
Plasma amino acids are a type of amino acid found in the blood. They make up an important part of a healthy diet and metabolism. Plasma amino acids play an important role in proteins and other compounds, and are essential for many biological processes such as growth, development, metabolism, and energy production.
Preparation for Plasma Amino Acids
Plasma amino acids are typically obtained from a blood sample. Typically, health professionals collect blood from a vein in the arm or from a capillary in the finger.
Types of Plasma Amino Acids
The types of amino acids found in plasma can vary depending on the individual's diet and metabolism. Some of the most common are:
- Alanine
- Arginine
- Aspartic Acid
- Cysteine
- Glutamic Acid
- Glycine
- Histidine
- Isoleucine
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Phenylalanine
- Proline
- Serine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
- Tyrosine
- Valine
Why Are Plasma Amino Acids Important?
Plasma amino acids are essential for many metabolic processes. For example, they can promote healthy cell growth and development. They are also necessary for energy production, as many of them can be used as a source of energy or be converted to glucose. Additionally, amino acids help create and maintain neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that carry signals between neurons in the brain.
When Should Plasma Amino Acids Be Used?
Plasma amino acids can be used to assess various aspects of health. For example, they can be used to determine whether an individual is getting enough protein in their diet, if they are at risk for certain metabolic diseases, or if certain medications may affect their amino acid levels. Additionally, they can be used to diagnose nutritional deficiencies or metabolic disorders.
Risks of Plasma Amino Acids
The risks of using plasma amino acids are minimal. However, in some cases, individuals may experience minor side effects such as nausea, dizziness or headaches. In rare cases, severe allergic reactions have been reported.