valine

Action and Spectrum

Actions and spectrum: 

• Protein Synthesis: Valine is a crucial component of protein synthesis. During translation, the genetic code in mRNA is used to assemble individual amino acids into polypeptide chains, forming proteins. Valine is specifically incorporated into these polypeptide chains. 
• Energy Production: Valine, along with other branched-chain amino acids (leucine and isoleucine), can be converted into intermediates that participate in energy production. These amino acids can undergo catabolism in muscle tissue to generate energy. 
• Muscle Growth and Repair: Valine plays a role in promoting muscle growth and repair. It is particularly important in the synthesis of muscle proteins and is considered essential for maintaining a positive nitrogen balance in the body. 
• Branched-Chain Amino Acid (BCAA): Valine is one of three branched-chain amino acids, along with the leucine and isoleucine. BCAAs are known for their unique branched molecular structure and are often used in supplements to support muscle health and athletic performance. 
• Nitrogen Balance: Valine contributes to maintaining nitrogen balance in the body, a critical factor in protein metabolism. Nitrogen balance reflects the equilibrium between nitrogen intake and nitrogen excretion. 

Drug Interaction

Adverse Reaction

Frequency not defined 

Nausea 

Diarrhea 

Fatigue 

Stomach upset 

Vomiting 

Bloating 

Black Box Warning

Black Box Warning: 

There is no specific black box warning associated with valine. 

Contraindication / Caution

Contraindication/Caution: 

Contraindication: 

• Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD): Individuals with MSUD, a rare genetic disorder affecting branched-chain amino acid metabolism, may need to restrict their intake of valine, leucine, and isoleucine. 
• Liver or Kidney Disorders: People with severe liver or kidney disorders may need to adjust their protein intake, including amino acids like valine. Such adjustments are typically made under the guidance of healthcare professionals. 
• Branched-Chain Ketoaciduria: Some rare disorders affecting the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids may necessitate dietary restrictions, including valine.

Caution: 

• Individuals with Metabolic Disorders: People with maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) or other disorders affecting branched-chain amino acid metabolism, may need to monitor their valine intake. These conditions may require dietary restrictions and careful management under the guidance of healthcare professionals. 
• Dietary Balance: While valine is an essential amino acid, it is part of a larger group of amino acids that contribute to overall protein balance. Maintaining a balanced diet including a variety of protein sources is important for meeting nutritional needs. 
• Supplement Use: Caution should be exercised when considering amino acid supplements, including valine supplements. In most cases, obtaining amino acids from natural food sources is preferable to supplementation, as excessive intake from supplements may have unintended consequences.

Comorbidities: 

• Liver or Kidney Disorders: Individuals with severe liver or kidney disorders may experience altered amino acid metabolism, including valine. In such cases, healthcare professionals may recommend dietary adjustments to manage protein intake. 
• Neurological Disorders: Some research suggests that imbalances in amino acid levels, including valine, may be associated with certain neurological disorders. However, the relationship between amino acids and neurological conditions is complex, and more research is needed to establish clear connections. 

Pregnancy / Lactation

Pregnancy consideration:   

Pregnancy category: N/A 

Lactation: excreted into human milk is unknown  

Pregnancy categories: 

• Category A: well-controlled and Satisfactory studies show no risk to the fetus in the first or later trimester. 
• Category B: there was no evidence of risk to the fetus in animal studies, and there were not enough studies on pregnant women. 
• Category C: there was evidence of risk of adverse effects in animal reproduction studies, and no adequate evidence in human studies must take care of potential risks in pregnant women.   
• Category D: adequate data with sufficient evidence of human fetal risk from various platforms, but despite the potential risk, and used only in emergency cases for potential benefits. 
• Category X: Drugs listed in this category outweigh the risks over benefits. Hence these categories of drugs need to be avoided by pregnant women. 
• Category N: There is no data available for the drug under this category. 

Pharmacology

Pharmacology: 

The pharmacology of valine is primarily rooted in its role as an essential amino acid vital for protein synthesis and various physiological functions. As part of the 20 standard amino acids, valine contributes to the formation of polypeptide chains during translation, playing a crucial role in the synthesis of proteins essential for cellular structure and function. Valine is one of three branched chain amino acids and is involved in energy production when metabolized in muscle tissue. While valine itself is not administered as a drug, the understanding of its metabolism and incorporation into proteins is integral to comprehending the broader field of amino acid biochemistry.  

Pharmacodynamics: 

• Protein Synthesis: Valine is the essential component of protein synthesis. During translation, the genetic code is used to assemble amino acids, including valine, into polypeptide chains, forming proteins. This process is crucial for the structure and function of various cellular proteins. 
• Branched-Chain Amino Acid (BCAA) Metabolism: Valine is one of three branched-chain amino acids, along with leucine and isoleucine. BCAAs are unique in their branched molecular structure and are metabolized in muscle tissue. Valine, when catabolized, can contribute to energy production. 
• Nitrogen Balance: Valine, along with other amino acids, contributes to maintaining nitrogen balance in the body. Nitrogen balance is important for assessing protein metabolism and overall protein status. 
• Muscle Protein Synthesis and Repair: Valine is particularly involved in promoting muscle protein synthesis and repair. Adequate intake of valine, along with other BCAAs, is essential for supporting muscle health. 
• Energy Production: Valine, when metabolized, can serve as a substrate for energy production, especially during periods of increased energy demand, such as intense physical activity.

Pharmacokinetics: 

• Absorption: Valine is absorbed through the small intestine as a component of dietary proteins. During digestion, the proteins are broken down into amino acids, including valine, which can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. 
• Distribution: Once absorbed, valine is distributed throughout the body via the bloodstream. It becomes part of the pool of amino acids available for protein synthesis and various physiological functions. 
• Metabolism: Valine undergoes metabolic processes within cells. It can be catabolized in muscle tissue, releasing energy, and contributing to the production of intermediates involved in energy metabolism. 
• Excretion: Valine is not excreted as a standalone substance. Instead, its fate is tied to the turnover of proteins within the body. Excess amino acids, including valine, may be broken down and eliminated as waste products. 

Adminstartion

Administration: 

Valine, as an essential amino acid, is not administered in the same way that pharmaceutical drugs are. It is obtained through dietary sources, primarily from protein-containing foods. 

• Meat and Poultry: Beef, chicken, turkey, and other meats are good sources of valine. 
• Fish: The fish, such as salmon and tuna, contain valine. 
• Dairy Products: The dairy products such as Milk, cheese, and yogurt are examples that provide valine. 
• Legumes and Nuts: Beans, lentils, peanuts, and almonds are plant-based sources of valine. 
• Whole Grains: Whole grains, including oats and brown rice, contain valine. 

Patient Information Leaflet

Patient information leaflet 

Generic Name: valine 

Pronounced: (VAL-een)  

Why do we use valine? 

Valine, an essential amino acid, serves a vital role in supporting various physiological functions within the body. Its primary use lies in protein synthesis, where it is incorporated into polypeptide chains during translation, contributing to the function of proteins crucial for cellular processes.

Valine, along with other branched-chain amino acids, is involved in promoting muscle protein synthesis and repair, making it essential for maintaining muscle health. As part of a balanced diet, valine contributes to overall nitrogen balance, supporting proper protein metabolism.

While valine itself is not administered as a medication, its availability through dietary intake is fundamental for sustaining cellular function, energy production, and overall well-being. Obtaining valine from a diverse range of protein sources, including meat, dairy, legumes, and nuts, is key to ensuring adequate intake and supporting the body’s essential amino acid requirements.