You will need to download and install a Java plug-in in order to view this applet. Download Sun's Java plug-in from here.

Click and drag your mouse inside the applet above to rotate the molecule in 3-D. Applet instructions...

Switch to another visualization applet:

	miniJaMM	open in new window...
	JaMM1
	JaMM2

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is a neutral, polar, and hydrophobic amino acid.

Chemical Formula: C₉H₁₁N₁O₃

Other names: 2-Amino-3-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-propionic acid

Layman's explanation: While tyrosine is required for the creation of several types of proteins, one of tyrosine's more important functions is to act as a precursor for various neurotransmitters such as dopamine and epinephrine. Additionally, tyrosine is also utilized by skin cells to produce melanin, a dark pigmentation that protects the skin against ultraviolet radiation, and is used in the treatment of depression and stress. Tyrosine can be found in most dairy products, meats and most other protein-containing foods, and is also produced from phenylalanine in the body.

Keywords: melanin, depression, hydrophobic

Crystallographic details...
More visualization options...
See other versions...

Reciprocal Net site software 0.9.1-50, copyright (c) 2002-2009, The Trustees of Indiana University
Files and data presented via this software are property of their respective owners.
Reciprocal Net is funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation as part of the National Science Digital Library project.