Asparagine

Asparagine is a non-essential amino acid and is the beta-amide of aspartic acid.

Chemical Formula: C₄H₈N₂O₃

Other names: 2-Amino-succinamic acid

Layman's explanation: Asparagine is a basic amino acid that was first extracted from asparagus in 1932. It is an important constituent in many plant proteins and is closely related to aspartic acid. In the liver, a function of asparagine involves converting one amino acid to another. Asparagine helps maintain an equilibrium of the central nervous system and has therapeutic properties, but is toxic when used in excess. Asparagine is most commonly found in poultry, dairy, eggs, and beef.

Keywords: asparagus, amination

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