Taurine
2023 JUN 15
Preliminary >
Science and Technology > Everyday S&T > Basic biology
Why in news?
- A recent study has shown that Taurine – a nutrient found in meat, and fish and sold as a supplement – extends life and boosts health in a range of animal species.
- Experiments on middle-aged animals showed boosting taurine to youthful levels extended life by over 10% and improved physical and brain health.
About Taurine:
- Taurine is an amino acid and is widely-distributed in animal tissues
- It has important roles in your body, including supporting immune health and nervous system function.
- It is a major constituent of bile and can be found in the large intestine, and accounts for up to 0.1% of total human body weight.
- The scientific report suggests taurine plays a role in reducing cellular senescence, a hallmark of ageing.
- Cellular senescence is a phenomenon characterized by the cessation of cell division
- The nutrient also appeared to keep mitochondria functioning.
- Taurine is virtually non-existent in plants. So the nutrient either comes from the animal protein in the diet or is manufactured by the body.
PRACTICE QUESTION
Consider the following statements regarding Taurine:
1. It is widely-distributed in plant tissues
2. It has important roles in human body, including supporting immune health and nervous system function.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Answer