Maitake Mushroom: Complete Amino Acid Profile

Maitake Mushroom ‐ Amino Acids List

Introduction

Maitake mushroom, also known as Grifola frondosa or “hen of the woods” in English, is a species of edible macromycete fungus (pleurotoid mushroom) native to Japan and North America. Maitake has been widely used for its culinary and medicinal properties for centuries. Recently, the health benefits of this unique mushroom have been recognized and studied widely for its nutritional value, particularly for its high concentrations of amino acids. This article will discuss the role amino acids play within maitake mushrooms and explore the most abundant types present in them.

Amino Acids Overview

Amino acids are organic compounds that contain both amine (-NH2) and carboxylic acid (-COOH) functional groups linked by peptide bonds between two carbon atoms, forming what is called an alpha-carbon atom.1 Amino acids can be further categorized into two distinct categories: essential and nonessential. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized by organisms, such as humans; thus they must be obtained through dietary sources.2 Nonessential amino acids, on the other hand, can be produced in vivo.3 For example, glutamine, serine, and aspartic acid all belong to the second category.4 A number of these amino acids have specific biochemical functions from synthesis and breakdown of proteins to energy production and regulation of metabolic enzymes.5 Thus, it is important to understand which ones specifically are contained in foods like maitake mushrooms in order for us to properly take advantage of their potential benefits.

Amino Acid Profile of Maitake Mushroom

Studies have shown that maitake mushrooms contain several different amino acids. Some of the major kinds include arginine, glutamic acid, lysine, glycerol, tyrosine, cystine, leucine, valine, histidine, alanine, phenylalanine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, aspartic acid, glutamate, asparagine and proline.6 Arginine is mostly found in testis and is hypothesized to die off rapidly outside this environment making it tough to acquire through our diets.7 Glycine is required mainly for biosynthesis of other amino acids, therefore supplementing food with this particular one is essential.8 Lysine assists the body with growth, repair, and maintenance of bones and tissues, while leucine helps speed up recovery time with regards to muscle soreness post exercise.9 Valine promotes optimal nitrogen balance, efficient use of carbohydrates, as well as energy for cell growth and muscular activity.10 Histidine plays a role in numerous biological processes, ranging from peripheral nerve transmission to hemoglobin formation, usually requiring additional vitamin C supplementation.11 Alanine is used to create pyruvate acid, allowing more sugars to be oxidized by cells during cellular respiration as well as aiding glycogen formation in the liver.12 Phenylalanine convert to tyrosine, helping regulate neurotransmitters necessary for mental and physical wellbeing13 Methionine offers architectural support for proteins and acts as a antioxidant capable of scavenging free radicals.14 Threonine provide structural stability for long chains of proteins15 Tryptophan converts serotonin, which leads to better quality sleep, enhancement of the immune system, suppression of mood swings, and feelings of relaxation and satiety. Aspartic acid stimulates hormones and increases alertness due to being part of signaling pathways involving brain activity.16 Glutamate inhibits insulin release and helps form synapses responsible for neuronal activities.17 Lastly, proline works in conjunction with other amino acids to help regenerate ligaments and muscles.18

Conclusion

In conclusion, maitake mushrooms possess an abundance of essential and nonessential amino acids. These molecules carry out complex biological functions including maintaining cellular respiration, providing structure to proteins, promoting quality sleep, stimulating hormones, and assisting with muscle tissue regeneration. Therefore, frequent consumption of maitake mushrooms can potentially improve people's lives in many ways, improving overall health and wellness.