Indole alkaloids are derived from which amino acid?

Study for the Manor Preboards Module 2 Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions that include hints and explanations. Prepare thoroughly for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Indole alkaloids are derived from which amino acid?

Explanation:
Indole alkaloids all carry an indole ring, and the biosynthesis of that indole-containing skeleton starts from the amino acid tryptophan. In biosynthetic steps, tryptophan is converted to tryptamine, and this indole-containing framework is then built upon to produce the wide variety of indole alkaloids. The other amino acids listed don’t provide the indole structure: tyrosine and phenylalanine contribute different aromatic rings, and threonine is not aromatic at all. So the precursor is tryptophan.

Indole alkaloids all carry an indole ring, and the biosynthesis of that indole-containing skeleton starts from the amino acid tryptophan. In biosynthetic steps, tryptophan is converted to tryptamine, and this indole-containing framework is then built upon to produce the wide variety of indole alkaloids. The other amino acids listed don’t provide the indole structure: tyrosine and phenylalanine contribute different aromatic rings, and threonine is not aromatic at all. So the precursor is tryptophan.

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