Cysteine

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Cysteine (abbreviated as Cys or C)[3] is a semi-essential proteinogenic amino acid with the formula HO2CCH(NH2)CH2SH. It can be synthesized in humans to some extent.[4] It is encoded by the codons UGU and UGC. The thiol side chain in cysteine often participates in enzymatic reactions, serving as a nucleophile. The thiol is susceptible to oxidization to give the disulfide derivative cystine, which serves an important structural role in many proteins. When used as a food additive, it has the E number E920.

See also