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| Physical Characters and Index |
English name: L-Tryptophan
CAS no. : 73-22-3
Molecular formula: C11H12N2O2
Molecular weight: 204.23
EINECS no. : 200-795-6 |
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| Use and description |
| Tryptophan is an α-amino acid that is used in the biosynthesis of proteins. Tryptophan contains an α-amino group, an α-carboxylic acid group, and a side chain indole, making it a polar molecule with a non-polar aromatic beta carbon substituent. It is essential in humans, meaning that the body cannot synthesize it and it must be obtained from the diet. Tryptophan is also a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, the hormone melatonin, and vitamin B3. It is encoded by the codon UGG. |
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