Beta-Aminobutyric acid

Beta-Aminobutyric acid (BABA) is a non-protein amino acid that is naturally produced in plants and animals. It is also known as 3-aminobutyric acid or beta-amino butyric acid. BABA is a homologue of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), but unlike GABA, it is not involved in the transmission of nerve impulses.

Chemical Structure and Properties

Beta-Aminobutyric acid is a simple amino acid with the chemical formula C4H9NO2. It consists of a four-carbon chain, with an amino group (NH2) at one end and a carboxyl group (COOH) at the other. The presence of these functional groups gives BABA both acidic and basic properties. It is a white crystalline solid at room temperature, and is soluble in water.

Biological Role

In plants, BABA is involved in the response to stress, such as pathogen attack or environmental conditions. It has been shown to induce systemic acquired resistance (SAR), a type of immune response in plants. In animals, BABA is a metabolite of the amino acid threonine, and is involved in the biosynthesis of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and coenzyme A.

Industrial Use

Beta-Aminobutyric acid is used in the chemical industry as a precursor for the synthesis of other compounds. It is also used in the pharmaceutical industry for the production of certain drugs.

Health Effects

While BABA is generally considered safe, excessive intake can lead to health problems. These can include gastrointestinal disturbances, such as nausea and diarrhea, and neurological effects, such as dizziness and seizures.

See Also

• Amino acid
• Gamma-aminobutyric acid
• Systemic acquired resistance
• Threonine
• Pantothenic acid
• Coenzyme A

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