L-Lysine: Background. Actions
Background
L-Lysine is absorbed from the small intestine and is transported to the liver via the portal circulation where it is involved in protein biosynthesis and partly metabolised.
Chemical Components
L-Lysine is the biologically active stereoisomer of lysine.
L-Lysine: Main Actions
ESSENTIAL AMINO ACID
The human body cannot synthesise L-lysine so it must be taken in through the diet. The richest sources of L-lysine are animal proteins such as meat and poultry. It is also found to lesser extents in eggs, beans and dairy products.
ANTIVIRAL
L-Lysine has an inhibitory effect on the multiplication of HSV in cell cultures. It appears to act as an antimetabolite and competes with arginine for inclusion into viral replicative processes. As such, lysine retards the viral growth promoting action of arginine.
CALCIUM REGULATION
L-Lysine may be involved in the cellular absorption, regulation and use of calcium. In vitro tests with human osteoblasts indicate that lysine has a positive effect on osteoblast proliferation, activation and differentiation.
L-Lysine: Other Actions
L-Lysine is required for biosynthesis of carnitine, collagen and elastin.
