Leucine

(CH₃)₂CHCH₂(NH₂)CH₂OH

This is L-a-monoamino monocarboxylic acid, whose systematic name according to IUPAC nomenclature is 2-amino-4-methylpentanoic acid. Leucine is classified as an aliphatic amino acid based on its structural (relies on differences in side chain structure). According to electrochemical classification, it is categorized as a neutral amino acid, with neither acidic nor basic properties attributed to its side chain. In terms of biological or physiological classification, leucine is an essential amino acid for the human body.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė