noun
- a simple amino acid found in proteins, important in muscle metabolism and energy production
Usage: biochemistry; also spelled alanin in some contexts
Examples
- Alanine is one of the most abundant amino acids in the human body.
- The body can synthesize alanine from other amino acids during fasting.
- Alanine plays a key role in the glucose-alanine cycle between muscles and the liver.
- Athletes often have elevated alanine levels due to increased muscle protein turnover.
- Alanine is classified as a non-essential amino acid because the body can produce it.