methionine

[me-thahy-uh-neen, -nin]

noun

Biochemistry.

1. an amino acid, CH 3 SCH 2 CH 2 CH(NH2 )COOH, found in casein, wool, and other proteins or prepared synthetically: used as a supplement to a special diet in the prevention and treatment of certain liver diseases. Met; M

methionine

/ -ˌnaɪn, mɛˈθaɪəˌniːn /

noun

1. an essential amino acid containing sulphur, which occurs in many proteins: important in methylating reactions

methionine

1. An essential amino acid. Chemical formula: C ₅ H ₁₁ NO ₂ S.

2. See more at amino acid

Word History and Origins

Origin of methionine¹

First recorded in 1925–30; blend of methyl and thionine ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of methionine¹

C20: _meth- + _thionine

Example Sentences

The body can also make cysteine by converting another amino acid, methionine, in the liver.

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To promote these reactions, alternative meat developers will add browning agents, including specific amino acids such as cysteine, methionine and lysine, sugars and the vitamin thiamin.

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Limiting the essential amino acid methionine appears to amplify the effects of radiation and chemotherapy in mice with colon cancer and sarcomas.

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If farmers cannot use methionine, their thinking goes, industrial-style organic chicken farms will no longer be viable.

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Supplementation of methionine, another amino acid whose synthesis requires large amounts of NADPH, also improves the tolerance of cells to diamide6.

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