Leucine

Key notes

  • Leucine is an essential branched-chain amino acid.

  • The three branched-chain amino acids are:

    • Leucine.
    • Isoleucine.
    • Valine.
  • Humans cannot synthesise essential amino acids in sufficient quantities, so they must obtain them through diet.

  • Leucine is involved in:

    • Protein synthesis.
    • Muscle metabolism.
    • Regulation of the mTOR pathway.

  • Food sources include:

    • Milk and dairy products.
    • Eggs.
    • Meat.
    • Fish.
    • Soy.
    • Pulses.
    • Nuts.
  • Leucine has a major role in stimulating muscle-protein synthesis.
  • Excessive supplementation may not provide benefits beyond adequate protein intake.
  • It is relevant to nutrition, sports physiology and human metabolism.