tryptophan (redirected from tryptophan oxygenase)

tryp·to·phan  (trpt-fn) also tryp·to·phane (-fn)

n.

An essential amino acid, C₁₁H₁₂N₂O₂, formed from proteins during digestion by the action of proteolytic enzymes. It is necessary for normal growth and development and is the precursor of several substances, including serotonin and niacin.

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[tryptic, of trypsin (formed on the model of pepsin, peptic); see trypsin + -phan(e).]

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tryptophan [ˈtrɪptəˌfæn]

n

(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biochemistry) an essential amino acid; a component of proteins necessary for growth

[from trypt(ic) + -o + -phan variant of -phane]

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tryptophan  (trpt-fn)

An essential amino acid. Chemical formula: C₁₁H₁₂N₂O₂. See more at amino acid.

Thesaurus

Noun

1.

tryptophan - an amino acid that occurs in proteins; is essential for growth and normal metabolism; a precursor of niacin tryptophane essential amino acid - an amino acid that is required by animals but that they cannot synthesize; must be supplied in the diet