Biological activity of alpha-alkyl-amino acids.

A series of alpha-alkyl-amino acids were tested for some biological functions in the mouse (OF-1 Himberg) by adding them to the animal chow (30 mg/kg/day) for a period of six weeks. No differences in fluid or food uptake could be observed during the feeding period, as compared to a control group. Histology of liver and kidney did not show any changes. Testing routine clinical chemical parameters (serum substrates and enzymes) revealed the following changes: Hex-Ala and But-Abu increased the serum glucose levels. But-Abu dramatically lowered the triglycerides. Serum albumin was increased by Pent-Ala, Me-Val, and But-Abu. LDH was inhibited by But-Abu.