Glutamine acts as a critical inter-organ nitrogen carrier and a key regulator of pH, playing a vital role in acid-base homeostasis through renal ammoniagenesis. In acidosis, the kidneys increase glutamine uptake and metabolism to produce ammonia (
), which excretes excess acid (
) as ammonium (
) in urine.
National Institutes of Health (.gov)
+2
Key Aspects of Glutamine in Homeostasis:
Nitrogen Transport: Glutamine transports nitrogen between tissues safely, serving as a non-toxic carrier of amino groups.
Renal Acid Defense: The kidney is the primary site for metabolic regulation of acid-base balance. During metabolic acidosis, glutamine is converted into glutamate and
(ammoniagenesis), releasing bicarbonate (
) into the bloodstream to buffer acids.
Hepatic Regulation: The liver switches nitrogen metabolism during acidosis from urea synthesis to producing glutamine, reducing proton-producing urea synthesis and supporting kidney function.
Brain Protection: Glutamine synthesis in astrocytes helps detoxify ammonia in the brain and maintains glutamate homeostasis, protecting against excitotoxicity.
Metabolic Role: Beyond acid-base, it is a crucial substrate for cellular energy (nucleotide synthesis, antioxidants).
Nitrides are a diverse class of binary compounds where nitrogen (oxidation state
-3negative 3
−3
) is combined with a less electronegative element, such as metals, boron, or silicon.
Heat Sensitivity: Glutamine is sensitive to heat and is generally stable only up to about 120°F (49°C). Since a standard cup of hot coffee is typically served at 160°F–185°F, it can degrade the supplement.