Lysine

Lysine (Lys or K) is an amino acid present in proteins.

Structure of lysine

Like all of the amino acids, lysine has two functional groups, an amine group (NH₂) and a carboxyl group (COOH). It has a long side chain with four CH₂ and ends in an amino group (NH₂). It is a basic amino acid.

Function of lysine

Lysine is an essential amino acid which is obtained from the diet (vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, milk).

Lysine is involved in the formation of hydrogen bonds in proteins and can undergo post-translational modifications (acetylation, ubiquitination, methylation, etc. ).