HealthAugust 1, 2026

valine

VAY-leen

Definition

An essential amino acid that is a crucial building block for protein synthesis and plays a significant role in metabolic regulation and muscle health.

Etymology

The term was coined in the early 20th century, derived from 'valeric acid'—which itself traces to the Latin 'valere' (to be strong)—because valine was first isolated from proteins that contained that acid.

In the news

Valine is identified in the article as one of the specific amino acids that influence metabolic signaling pathways, which, when persistently active, may contribute to age-related stress.

Eating less protein may support healthier aging

Read the full article ↗

Bioengineer.org

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