Abstracto

Role of Essential Amino Acids in Protein Synthesis and Muscle Growth

Pallavi Rai

Amino acids serve as the fundamental building blocks of proteins, playing a crucial role in various physiological processes, including protein synthesis and muscle growth. Among the 20 standard amino acids, nine are classified as essential, meaning they must be obtained through the diet as the body cannot synthesize them. This comprehensive review examines the pivotal role of essential amino acids in protein synthesis and their impact on muscle growth and repair. The process of protein synthesis relies on the availability of all essential amino acids in adequate quantities. Each amino acid contributes specific functional groups to the polypeptide chain during translation, forming unique protein structures with diverse functions. A deficiency or imbalance in essential amino acids can impede protein synthesis, compromising tissue repair and maintenance. Moreover, essential amino acids are intricately linked to muscle growth and hypertrophy. Leucine, in particular, has emerged as a key regulator of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling pathway, a central regulator of muscle protein synthesis. Additionally, the anabolic response of skeletal muscle to resistance exercise is significantly influenced by essential amino acid availability, particularly leucine and branched-chain amino acids. Furthermore, essential amino acids contribute to muscle protein balance by modulating muscle protein breakdown. Proper supplementation of essential amino acids has been shown to enhance the net protein balance, promoting muscle anabolism and mitigating muscle wasting in conditions such as aging and disease. This review also highlights the importance of timing and composition of essential amino acid intake for optimizing muscle protein synthesis. Strategies such as peri-exercise consumption and leucine-enriched supplements have shown promising results in stimulating muscle protein synthesis and facilitating post-exercise recovery.