Histamine is synthesized from one of the 20 protein-derived amino acids. Suggest which amino acid is its biochemical precursor and the type of organic reaction(s) involved in its biosynthesis (for example, oxidation, reduction, decarboxylation, nucleophilic substitution).

Short Answer

Expert verified
Answer: Histidine serves as a precursor for histamine biosynthesis, and the primary type of organic reaction involved in this process is decarboxylation.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the biochemical precursor of histamine

Histamine is derived from the amino acid histidine. So, histidine is the biochemical precursor for histamine.
02

Recognize the type of reactions involved in histamine biosynthesis

In the biosynthesis of histamine from histidine, the carboxyl group (COOH) is removed from the histidine molecule, followed by the formation of a new bond between the nitrogen in the imidazole ring and a hydrogen atom. The biochemical reaction involved in transforming histidine to histamine is a decarboxylation reaction.
03

Conclude

The amino acid that serves as a precursor for histamine biosynthesis is histidine, and the primary type of organic reaction involved in this process is decarboxylation.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

See all solutions

Recommended explanations on Chemistry Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free