Protein: A Primer

Learn more about protein with this primer from eatCultured. 

What Is Protein?

Protein, large biomolecules comprising chains of different amino acid residues, forms an essential part of the human diet supporting a variety of normal metabolic functions.

At a cellular level, protein supports a range of biological functions including building new muscle tissue, blood cells, hormones and antibodies.

All proteins in the human body are constituted from a combination of 22 different "proteinogenic" (protein-building) amino acids, some of which are created in the human body while others are ingested. 

Where Do Amino Acids Come From?

Amino acids are organic compounds of amines and carboxylic acids comprising atoms of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen.

These acids are created in nature as a result of chemical reactions and interactions at a molecular level inside our bodies - as well as those of all other living things.

While there are upwards of 500 naturally-occurring amino acids, just 22 (21 in eukaryotes) "standard" amino acids form the building blocks of almost all life on Earth.

Amino Acids in Humans

Human DNA, referred to as "the human genome", contains instructions for synthesizing protein from 20 kinds of amino acid. Our bodies produce two more types of amino acid using different processes that aren't encoded in our DNA. 

While eleven amino acids can be synthesized by the human body from scratch, nine others, referred to as "essential amino acids," need to be absorbed into our bodies from the food we eat.

Amino Acid  Essential?    Encoded?    Used For?
Alanine 		X
Sugar and acid metabolism, immunity function and energy for muscle and brain as well as the central nervous system.
Cysteine 		X Metabolic processes and detoxification. 
Aspartic acid 		X A neurotransmitter and used in the synthesis of other amino acids.
Glutamic acid 		X A neurotransmitter.  
Phenylalanine 		X
Plays a key role in the biosynthesis of other amino acids and is important in the structure and function of many proteins and enzymes.
Glycine 		X DNA, phospholipids and collagen production. Also plays a role in the release of energy.
Histidine 		X
Needed for growth and tissue repair. Plays a role in protecting nerve cells and histamine production. 
Isoleucine 		X
Important in hemoglobin synthesis and regulation of blood sugar and energy levels.
Lysine 		X


Required for growth and tissue repair.
Leucine 		X


Used in protein synthesis and many metabolic functions. Contributes to regulation of blood-sugar levels, growth and repair of muscle and bone tissue, growth hormone production and wound healing.
Methionine 		X


Required for growth and tissue repair. Improves skin, hair, and strengthens nails. Bi-product sulphur protects cells from pollutants, slows cell aging and supports absorption of selenium and zinc.
Asparagine 		X


Involved in the metabolic control of cell functions in nerve and brain tissue.
Pyrrolysine 		X


Not used in humans.
Proline 		X


An essential component of collagen and is important for proper functioning of joints and tendons.
Glutamine 		X


Supports cellular energy levels and regulation of bodily ammonia levels. 
Arginine 		X


May prevent or treat heart and circulatory diseases, combat fatigue and stimulate the immune system. It also boosts production of nitric oxide, relaxing blood vessels, with potential positive effects on angina and other cardiovascular problems.
Serine 		X


Used to metabolize fatty acids, support cell membranes, muscle growth and a healthy immune system.
Threonine 		X

Supports cell immune function, proper neurological function and mobility. 
Selenocysteine 		X


Involved in the production of several enzymes. Produced through mRNA translational recoding instead of standard amino acid production. 
Valine 		X


Related to Leucine. Usually ingested as a component of proteins. Involved in stress, energy and muscle management. 
Tryptophan 		X


The precursor of both serotonin and melatonin, which regulate sleep and wakefulness.
Tyrosine 		X


A precursor for neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. 


A balanced diet, whether it includes meat or is entirely plant-based, is the key to obtaining all these amino acids and staying healthy!

Protein Synthesis in Humans

Protein synthesis takes place in our ribosomes, tiny protein assembly units housed in each of our cells. Here, amino acids are knitted together to form three-dimensional polypeptides, long chains of molecules that form the basis of proteins, through a process known as "translation."

Instructions for assembling different kinds of protein are found in specific genes located at a cellular level in our DNA.

Through "gene expression" messages for how to manufacture each protein are conveyed from the cell nucleus to ribosomes via Messenger RNA, a polymeric molecule. 

New Protein Innovation

At eatCultured, we use biotech innovation and natural fermentation to craft plant-based foods that are healthier and more digestible.

Watch out for more innovation later this year, including a new source of complete vegan protein!

In the meantime, discover our first product: Cultured Coffee. Crafted using natural fermentation to produce less acid reflux, jitters and provide longer-lasting energy. Experience it now. 

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