Question

List some functions of amino acid derivatives.

Short answer

Amino acid derivatives function as a neurotransmitter, hormones, metabolic activities, immune system, enzymes for chemical reactions, etc.

Step-by-step solution

Amino acid derivative

Amino acid derivatives are formed by replacing or reacting groups like amine, carboxyl, side chains, or hydrogen attached to the carbon atoms of amino acids. Beta amino acid, betaine, Alpha-ketoglutarate, etc., are some examples.

Functions of amino acid derivatives

Some of the functions of amino acid derivatives are:

• Some amino acid derivatives function as neurotransmitters.Dopamine, an amino acid derivative derived from tyrosine, is an example of a neurotransmitter.
• Pharmaceutical companies use amino acid derivatives to synthesize medicines for different diseases.
• They have an important role in metabolic activities, for instance: glutathione.
• Certain amino acid derivatives act as enzymes that help in chemical reactions inside our bodies.
• Some hormones play an important role in regulating body functions and cell signaling. These hormones are amino acid derivatives. Thyroxine, a hormone produced from the thyroid gland, is an example.
• Histamine, an amino acid derivative, is useful in certain immune responses. Histidine is responsible for the histamine amino acid derivative.