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The Lysine Molecule

Symbol: Lys K
Molecular Weight: 146.19
Isolectric point (pH) 9.59
Molecular Formula: C 6H14N2O2

Image:Lys-stick.png

Lysine is one of the 20 most common natural amino acids on Earth. Nutritionally, in humans, lysine is an essential amino acid that has a net positive charge at physiological pH values making it one of the three basic (with respect to charge) amino acids. This polar amino acid is commonly found on the surfaces of proteins and enzymes, and sometimes appears in the active site.

Lysine can be used as a nutritional supplement to help against herpes. A deficiency in Lysine can result in a deficieny in niacin (which is a B Vitamin). This can cause the disease pellagra. Plants that contain significant amounts of lysine include:

 

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