NCIt related terms : Met; (S)-2-Amino-4-(methyl-sulfanyl)butanoic acid;
NCIt definition : One of nine essential amino acids in humans (provided by food), Methionine is required
for growth and tissue repair. A sulphur-containing amino acid, methionine improves
the tone and pliability of skin, hair, and strengthens nails. Involved in many detoxifying
processes, sulphur provided by methionine protects cells from pollutants, slows cell
aging, and is essential for absorption and bio-availability of selenium and zinc.
Methionine chelates heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, aiding their excretion.
It also acts as a lipotropic agent and prevents excess fat buildup in the liver. (NCI04);
Alternative definition : CRCH: Amino acid with side chain -CH2CH2SCH3.;
Semantic type(s)