Human Biochemistry, Volume 1 - Murray R. 1993

Protein and Amino Acid Metabolism
Amino Acid Biosynthesis
Biomedical Significance

The medical Significance of the material in this chapter stems from the severe consequences of essential amino acid deficiency, which arises from their absence in the diet or presence in insufficient amounts. Certain cereal grains are relatively low in Tryptophan and Lysine. In regions where these plants serve as the primary source of dietary protein and other protein sources (such as milk, fish, or meat) are lacking in the diet, severe amino acid deficiencies are frequently observed among the population. In parts of West Africa, childhood malnutrition (kwashiorkor) and marasmus are widespread. Kwashiorkor develops when a child, after weaning, is placed on a protein-deficient starchy diet, whereas marasmus results from a low-calorie diet deficient in specific Amino Acids.



Last update: 06/08/2026

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