Aromatic amino acids

phenylalanine

tryptophan

tyrosine

thyroxine

Aromatic amino acids are amino acids which include an aromatic ring.

Examples include:

• Among 20 standard amino acids: phenylalanine, histidine, tryptophan, and tyrosine
• Others: thyroxine

See also

• Aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase

Except for histidine, the aromatic amino acids contain a benzene ring. They are all essential amino acids since they are not synthesized in the body (there are other essential amino acids as well). They must be derived from the diet.

Many plants and microorganisms do synthesize them. Many herbicides inhibit aromatic acid sythesis which is why they are ok around pets and humans.

External links

• MeSH Aromatic+Amino+Acids

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