Novel Physiological Functions of Branched-Chain Amino Acids

Abstract

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are essential amino acids for humans and are major building blocks of proteins. Recent studies indicate that BCAAs act not only as components of proteins, but also as nutrasignals. In this review, we summarize the findings of recent studies investigating the physiological functions of BCAAs in the regulation of protein and glucose metabolism and brain function.