Taurine
TAURINE is classified as a semi-essential or "conditionally essential" amino acid. It is essential for normal infant development after which, taurine usually can be produced within the body. There is concern for babies, particularly premature infants -- as well as for those on long-term parenteral nutrition -- that there may be low plasma levels of taurine. Reduced body pools of taurine is associated with retinal degeneration; and, for this reason, most infant formulas and parenteral nutrition supplements have taurine added. Two parenteral solutions that include taurine are TrophAmineŽ and the pediatric AminosynŽ.
Taurine is not found in dietary proteins, but can be synthesized from cysteine and methionine. In order for taurine to be synthesized in the body, it requires the help of Vitamins A, B6, and E, and full spectrum light for conversion. Taurine is a unique amino acid in that it is not incorporated into proteins or dissociated to give its side groups and sulfur. Thus, it is referred to as a free amino acid. As glutaurine, it acts as a neurotransmitter and is involved in such biological processes as cell differentiation, sperm motility, retinal photo receptor activity, detoxification, and as an oxidant for free radicals because it is a free amino acid.
Taurine is a key component of bile, needed for the digestion of fats and the absorption of fat-soluable vitamins. It is also necessary for the control of serum cholesterol levels and works against fatty degeneration of the liver. Epilepsy, anxiety, hyperactivity, and poor brain function are related to a taurine deficiency. The female hormone estradiol can inhibit its synthesis.
Taurine is found in most tissues and fluids, especially the CNS, bile acids, muscles, blood platelets, and lymphocytes. High concentrations are found in the brain, heart muscle, white blood cells, skeletal muscle, and central nervous system. Taurine levels are four times greater in the brains of children than in the brains of adults. It is known to protect the brain, especially if it becomes dehydrated.
Taurine and zinc work together in maintaining eye function. A deficiency of one or both can affect vision. Another disorder common when zinc and taurine levels are low is epilepsy.
Deficiency symptoms include: deterioration of bile salts formation, decreased cholesterol solubility and protein uptake, epilepsy, decreased vision, and decreased osmotic control of calcium and potassium levels in the heart.
Toxicity symptoms include: decreased cell membrane integrity, GI pain, gallbladder deterioration, cardiac arrhythmias.
