Proline is the precursor of hydroxyproline, which the body manufactures into collagen, tendons, ligaments, and heart muscle. Proline is involved in wound healing, plays important roles in molecular recognition, and is an important component in certain medical wound dressings that use collagen to stimulate wound healing. Proline helps in the healing of cartilage and the strengthening of joints, tendons, and heart muscles, and it works with vitamin C to promote healthy connective tissues.
The measurement of proline, along with 23 other amino acids, is included in the Amino Acids in Plasma and the Amino Acids in Urine tests.
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Proline (Pro/P) is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the human body can synthesize it independently from other amino acids. It is one of the twenty standard amino acids cells use to build proteins.
Proline has a unique structure that sets it apart from other amino acids. Its side chain has a cyclic structure, which makes it more rigid than other amino acids with a more flexible structure. This rigidity allows proline to play important roles in protein structure, stability, and function.
Proline has several important biological roles. It is a critical component of collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body. It is crucial for maintaining the structure and function of many tissues, including skin, bone, cartilage, and tendons. Proline is also involved in energy metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis and has antioxidant activity.
Protein structure: Proline is unique among the 20 standard amino acids because its cyclic structure allows it to form kinks in the polypeptide chain. These kinks can affect protein structure, stability, and function.
Collagen synthesis: Proline is a critical component of collagen, the most abundant protein in the human body. Collagen provides strength and structure to many tissues, including skin, bone, cartilage, and tendons.
Antioxidant activity: Proline has been shown to have antioxidant activity, which can help protect cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species.
Energy metabolism: Proline can be metabolized to generate energy through the proline cycle. This cycle helps maintain cellular energy balance and can be particularly important during stress or low energy availability.
Neurotransmitter synthesis: Proline is a precursor to the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has essential roles in the central nervous system, including regulating anxiety and mood.
Proline is an amino acid found in many types of food, particularly in protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products. Plant-based sources of proline include soybeans, legumes, nuts, and grains.
The amount of proline in food can vary depending on several factors, including the type of food, how it is prepared, and the protein quality. For example, animal-based proteins tend to have higher amounts of proline than plant-based proteins. Cooking methods such as boiling, stewing, and braising can also affect the proline content of foods. Because proline is present in many familiar dietary protein sources, deficiency is rare in healthy individuals who consume a balanced diet.
