Difference Between Essential and Nonessential amino acids

Amino acids are building blocks of proteins that play many important roles in the body. Technically, amino acids are organic compounds that contain the amine and carboxyl functional groups along with a side chain which is specific to each amino acid.

Based on the body’s capability to synthesize, amino acids can be categorized into 2 types – essential amino acids and nonessential amino acids. As the name suggests, essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by the body and it has to be acquired through food. On the other hand, nonessential amino acids are called so because they can be synthesized by the body. Read on to explore more differences between the two amino acids.

Difference Between Essential and nonessential amino acids
Essential Amino Acids
Nonessential Amino Acids
Definition
Essential amino acids are the amino acids which have to be taken in through diet as they “CAN NOT” be produced by the body Nonessential amino acids need not be taken in through diet as they can be produced by the body
Number of Amino Acids
9 amino acids out of 20 are thought to be essential 11 of the 20 amino acids are non-essential
Sources
As the definition implies, essential amino acids have to be acquired through food – such as soy, quinoa, egg, chicken, meat or vegetable protein Are produced within the body from other amino acids and other components
Role
Serves to build and repair muscle tissues. Also, it forms precursor molecules for the formation of neurotransmitters in the brain Removal of toxins, integral in the synthesis of RBC and WBC, promotes brain function and many more.
Deficiency
Highly probably as these amino acids are acquired through food Probability of deficiency is rare, but can still occur due to starvation or illness.

Related Links:

Explore more fascinating topics by registering at BYJU’S Biology

Test your knowledge on Difference Between Essential And Nonessential Amino Acids

Comments

Leave a Comment

Your Mobile number and Email id will not be published.

*

*