tryptophan

[ trip-tuh-fan ]
/ ˈtrɪp təˌfæn /

noun Biochemistry.

an essential amino acid, (C8H6N)CH2CH(NH2)COOH, colorless, crystalline, and aromatic, released from proteins by tryptic digestion and a precursor of serotonin. Abbreviation: Trp; Symbol: W
Also tryp·to·phane [trip-tuh-feyn] /ˈtrɪp təˌfeɪn/.

Origin of tryptophan

1900–05; trypto- (irregular combining form representing Greek trīptós rubbed) + -phan(e)

Example sentences from the Web for tryptophan

British Dictionary definitions for tryptophan

tryptophan
/ (ˈtrɪptəˌfæn) /

noun

an essential amino acid; a component of proteins necessary for growth

Word Origin for tryptophan

C20: from trypt ( ic) + -o + -phan variant of -phane

Medical definitions for tryptophan

tryptophan
[ trĭptə-făn′ ]

n.

An essential amino acid formed from proteins during the digestive process by the action of proteolytic enzymes.

Scientific definitions for tryptophan

tryptophan
[ trĭptə-făn′ ]

An essential amino acid. Chemical formula: C11H12N2O2. See more at amino acid.