Similar spelling information Cystine amino acid

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Cystine amino acid

Cystine is a crystalline, sulfur-containing amino acid, formed from

two molecules of the amino acid cysteine. It can be converted to

cysteine by reduction and was discovered in 1810 but was not

recognized as a component of proteins until 1899, when it was

isolated from animal horn – it is particularly abundant in skeletal

and connective tissues, hair and digestive enzymes. The steps

followed in the formation of cystine and cysteine, is from methionine

to cystathionine and then to cysteine to cystine. For more

information please see Cysteine as well.

Cystine is required for

Required for proper vitamin B6 utilization and is also helpful in the

healing of burns and wounds, breaking down mucus deposits in

illnesses such as bronchitis as well as cystic fibrosis.

Cysteine also assists in the supply of insulin to the pancreas, which

is needed for the assimilation of sugars and starches.

It increases the level of glutathione in the lungs, liver, kidneys

and bone marrow, and this may have an anti-aging effect on the body

by reducing age-spots etc.

It has been shown as a detoxification agent to protect the body

against damage of alcohol and cigarette smoking, and may be effective

in preventing hangovers, as well as preventing liver and brain damage.

Deficiency of cystine

In chronic diseases it appears that the formation of cysteine from

methionine is prevented, resulting in a deficiency.

Dosage

The dosage listed is the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA), but be

aware that this dosage is the minimum that you require per day, to

ward off serious deficiency of this particular nutrient. In the

therapeutic use of this nutrient, the dosage is usually increased

considerably, but the toxicity level must be kept in mind.

Toxicity and symptoms of high intake

People suffering from diabetes should be careful when taking

supplementation, as it could inactivate insulin.

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