Serine is needed for the proper metabolism of fats and fatty acids. It plays a vital role in the body’s synthetic pathways for pyrimidines, purines (making it essential for DNA and RNA function), creatine, and porphyrins. It is highly concentrated in all cell membranes, is a component of the protective myelin sheaths surrounding nerve fibers, and aids in producing immunoglobulins and antibodies for maintaining a healthy immune system. Serine is the second amino acid alcohol because of its methyl side chain, which contains a hydroxy group.
The measurement of serine, 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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Serine (Ser/S) is a non-essential amino acid derived from glycine or threonine. It is vital for physical and mental health and is particularly important for adequately functioning the brain and central nervous system.
Serine helps form the phospholipids needed in every cell in the body. It is also involved in the function of RNA and DNA, the metabolism of fat and fatty acids, the formation of muscles, and maintaining a healthy immune system. The proteins that form the brain and the protective myelin sheaths that cover the nerves contain serine. Without serine, myelin sheaths can loosen and become less effective at insulating and supporting neurons, thereby disrupting the delivery of messages between the brain and nerve endings in the body.
Serine is also necessary to produce tryptophan, an amino acid used to create serotonin, a neurotransmitter that determines mental mood, among other things. Serotonin and tryptophan deficiencies have been linked to depression, insomnia, confusion, and stress. Research has shown that low serine levels may contribute to chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia (FM).
Serine also produces immunoglobulins (antibodies) for a robust immune system. It helps in the absorption of creatine, a substance made up of amino acids that helps build and maintain all the muscles in the body, including the heart.
To produce serine, enough vitamins B3, B6, and folic acid (B9) must be present. Meat and soy products, dairy, grains, and peanuts are good natural sources of serine. Serine is available in supplements such as protein powders and amino acid tablets, usually in combination with other amino acids.
Low urinary serine concentration is usually associated with insufficient protein intake, protein malabsorption, or magnesium deficiency.
