Products
Cysteine is commercially available in tablet form as a dietary supplement.
Structure and properties
L-cysteine (C3H7NO2S, Mr = 121.2 g/mol) is a nonessential sulfur-containing amino acid, with a sulfhydryl group on the side chain (-SH).
Effects
Cysteine (ATC V06CA) is a precursor of glutathione, which has antioxidant and cell-protective properties. Keratin, an important building block of hair, nails, and skin, is rich in cysteine. Cysteine is also found in connective tissue. Furthermore, cysteine plays a role in the immune system and in the synthesis of fatty acids. It is also a precursor of taurine.
Indications
- Food supplementation, e.g., for hair loss.
- Malnutrition, lack of or limited ability to provide adequate normal nutrition.