Methionine is an essential amino acid that is vital for protein synthesis and metabolism. It's a key component of one-carbon metabolism, and is also an important antioxidant.
Function
Protein synthesis: Methionine is the first amino acid to attach to the ribosome when proteins are being made.
Metabolism: Methionine helps break down fats, and is involved in the production of creatine, an energy-producing compound.
Antioxidant: Methionine's sulfur group inactivates free radicals.
Methyl donor: Methionine is a methyl donor in epigenetic and detoxification pathways.