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tryptophan

(trip′tə fan′)

noun

a white, aromatic, crystalline, essential amino acid, CHNHCHCCHCH(NH)COOH, produced synthetically and in digestion by the action of trypsin on proteins

also tryptophane

Origin: < trypt(ic) + -o- + -phan(e)

See tryptophan in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

An essential amino acid, C₁₁H₁₂N₂O₂, formed from proteins during digestion by the action of proteolytic enzymes. It is necessary for normal growth and development and is the precursor of several substances, including serotonin and niacin.

Origin:

Origin: tryptic, of trypsin (formed on the model of pepsin, peptic); see trypsin

Origin: + -phan(e)

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