Question

Amino acid Glycine is a/an

• A. Non essential amino acid
• B. Essential amino acid
• C. Semi-essential amino acid
• D. Fatty acid

Hint:

Mnemonic for Essential Amino Acids: PVT TIM HALL (Phenylalanine, Valine, Threonine, Tryptophan, Isoleucine, Methionine, Histidine, Arginine, Leucine, Lysine). Glycine is NOT on this list, so it is non-essential!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks for the classification of Glycine, which is the simplest possible amino acid (having only a hydrogen atom as its side chain).
Detailed Explanation:

• Definition: Amino acids are classified based on whether the organism can synthesize them in sufficient quantities.
• Essential: Must be obtained through diet.

• Non-essential: Can be synthesized by the body from other precursors.

• Classification of Glycine: Glycine is classified as a non-essential amino acid for humans and most vertebrates (including fish) because it can be synthesized from other amino acids like Serine or Threonine within the liver.

• Role in Fish: Glycine is important in fish nutrition as it acts as a powerful feeding attractant. Many fish feeds are supplemented with glycine to stimulate the appetite of the fish. It also plays a role in the synthesis of heme, creatine, and bile salts.

• Chemical Nature: It is the only amino acid that is not optically active (it lacks a chiral center).

Step 2: Final Answer:
Glycine is a non-essential amino acid.