glutamic acid C₃H₉O₄N 

Edited by: Joe Hing Kwok Chu

One of the 20 amino acids commonly found in proteins. Plays a central role in amino acid metabolism, acting as precursor of glutamine, proline and arginine. Also acts as amino group donor in synthesis by transamination of alanine from pyruvate and aspartic acid from oxaloacetate. Glutamate is also a neurotransmitter. Metabolism of glutamic acid can result in the formation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). , which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain.

Source: OMD