Amino acids as multifunctional molecules.

Abstract

The classification of amino acids, the unique effects of deficiency and utilization of isomers and precursors of neurotransmitters are identified and defined. Significant advances that have been made to understand the multifunctional roles of amino acids are discussed. Emerging issues which include the role of specific amino acids, such as leucine in molecular signalling and cysteine in the modulation of immune function, are also discussed.