In the microscopic universe of life science, amino acids are like precise gears, which cooperate with each other and promote the complex process of life. Among them, L-histidine plays an extremely important role. It is not only the key building block of protein, but also the hero behind the scenes who participates in many core physiological processes of human body, and plays an irreplaceable role in maintaining the normal operation of life.
Basic Information of L-Histidine
L-histidine, as an α-amino acid, belongs to the semi-essential amino acid of human body, which means that human body can synthesize part of L-histidine, but in some special periods, such as infant stage, the body grows rapidly and the demand for L-histidine increases greatly. Or when you are sick, your body's metabolism is disordered and your synthetic ability is limited; Or in a state of long-term stress, the body consumption intensifies, and the L-histidine synthesized by itself may not meet the demand, so it must be taken from food.
Physical and Chemical Properties of L-Histidine
L-histidine is a colorless to white crystal or crystalline powder, which has no special smell and tastes slightly bitter. It has a low solubility in water and is almost insoluble in ethanol, but it can be easily dissolved in dilute hydrochloric acid and dilute alkali solution. Its molecular structure contains a unique imidazole group, which gives L-histidine unique chemical characteristics. In biochemical reactions, it is like a magical "little assistant", which can participate in many enzymatic reactions as an acid-base catalyst and is very important to promote the chemical reaction process in organisms.
The Role of L-Histidine in Organisms
Protein synthesis: As the basic unit of protein, histidine l is deeply involved in the synthesis of various protein and enzymes. From the contraction and relaxation of our muscles, we can move freely; Protein and enzymes are everywhere, which catalyze countless chemical reactions in cells and maintain the normal metabolism of cells. Take the antibody protein in the immune system as an example, which contains L-histidine, which plays an important role in maintaining the normal function of the immune system and helping us resist the invasion of various pathogens.
Adjustment of acid-base balance: Imidazole group of L-histidine has strong buffering ability, which can skillfully maintain acid-base balance in the body. When the acid substance in the body increases, it is like a "proton sponge", which combines with excess protons to reduce the acidity; When the alkaline substance is excessive, it can release protons, neutralize alkalinity, and ensure that the pH value of the internal environment in the body is always stable in a suitable range. This provides a stable environmental foundation for the normal metabolism and physiological function of cells, just like creating a comfortable "nest" for cells.
Neurotransmitter synthesis: L-histidine is also the precursor of synthesizing the neurotransmitter histamine. Histamine is an important "messenger" in the nervous system, which is involved in regulating sleep, appetite, mood and other physiological processes. For example, at night, the change of histamine level will affect our sleep quality; When eating, it can also regulate appetite. At the same time, histamine plays a key role in the immune system. When the body is stimulated by allergens, it will release histamine and trigger a series of immune reactions, such as itchy skin, redness, sneezing and runny nose in the respiratory tract, all of which are "working".