Cystathionine

/ˌsɪstəˈθaɪ.əˌniːn/ noun

Definition

An amino acid that forms as an intermediate step when the body converts one amino acid (methionine) into another (cysteine).

Etymology

From 'cysteine' and 'methionine' combined with '-ine' (suffix for amino acids), named for being the bridge compound between these two important amino acids.

Kelly Says

Cystathionine is invisible to most people, but elevated levels reveal serious genetic diseases like homocystinuria—this single molecule, when its metabolism goes wrong, can cause intellectual disability, blood clots, and eye problems, making it a crucial biomarker.

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