Definitions for "Leucine"
a naturally occurring alpha-amino acid ((CH3)2CH.CH2.CH(NH2)-COOH), one of the building units of almost all proteins of living organisms, both animal and vegetable. It is one of the essential amino acids (not synthesized by the human body, a required component for proper nutrition), and is hydrophobic in character when bound in proteins. In isolated form it is a white, crystalline, zwitterionic substance formed, e. g. by the decomposition of proteins by pancreatic digestion, by the action of boiling dilute mineral acid, or by putrefaction. Chemically it is to be considered as amido-caproic acid. It occurs as two optical isomers, the L- and D-forms. The L-form, L-leucine, is the natural form, present in most proteins.
((CH3)2CHCH2CH(NH2)COOH) A naturally occuring aliphatic amino acid with a nonpolar side chain.
As A Treatment"Essential amino acid..." Related Topic"A white, crystalline amino acid essential for optimal growth in infants and nitrogen equilibrium in adults..."