| SERINE Serine is is a nonessential amino acid. It can be synthesized in the body from glycine but this process requires the presence of sufficient amounts of vitamins B3 and B6 and folic acid. Serine is required for the metabolism of fat, tissue growth and the immune system as it assists in the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies. One of the 3 most important glycogenic amino acids, the others being alanine and glycine. Note: Phosphoserine, a minor amino acid, a modification of Serine, is a good predictor of Vitamin B-6 deficiency, in particular the form of Vitamin B-6 called Pryidoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P). If plasma Phosphoserine levels are abnormally high, that is a clear indication of P5P deficiency. P5P is critical in amino acid processes. Norepinephrine is not produced if there is not enough P5P. Likewise, Tryptophan cannot be converted into the neurotransmitter Serotonin if there is not enough P5P. Main Functions: • Critical in maintaining blood sugar levels. • Boosts immune system by assisting in production of antibodies and immunoglobulins. However, too-high serine levels in the body may have adverse effects on the immune system. • Myelin sheath (the fatty acid complex that surrounds the axons of nerves is derived from serine. • Required for growth and maintenance of muscle. • Serine is needed for the proper metabolism of fats and fatty acids, the growth of muscle. • It is a component of brain proteins and the protective myelin sheaths that cover nerve fibers. • It is important in RNA and DNA function, cell membrane formation, and creatine synthesis. It also aids in the production of immunoglobulins and antibodies. Serine can be made from glycine in the body. Serine Deficiency: Seen in: • Total body gamma and neutron irradiation • Hypoglycemia • Candidiasis Serine Excess Seen In: Vitamin B-6 Deficiency Rich Food Sources of Serine Food sources of serine include meat and soy foods, as well as many foods that often cause allergic reactions, such as dairy products, wheat gluten, and peanuts. It is included as a natural moisturizing agent in many cosmetics and skin care preparations. |