essential amino acid

noun

, Biochemistry.

1. any amino acid that is required by an animal for growth but that cannot be synthesized by the animal's cells and must be supplied in the diet.

Word History and Origins

Origin of essential amino acid¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Two key factors determine the quality of a protein: its essential amino acid content and how well it is digested and absorbed.

From Salon

Contrary to popular belief, he said, the idea that plants can't deliver all of the essential amino acids is "complete mythology."

From Salon

Tryptophan is an essential amino acid found in many protein-rich foods, including meats, fish, dairy products, and certain seeds and nuts.

From Science Daily

Having this flexibility enables them to make essential amino acids, even when they can't obtain enough of the vitamin from the environment.

From Science Daily

The novel technique at the heart of the study involved measuring unique carbon isotope "fingerprints" in essential amino acids that only plants, bacteria, and fungi can produce.

From Science Daily