Deamination
Deamination is a biological process that involves the removal of an amino group from an amino acid. This process is essential for the metabolism of proteins, as it helps convert amino acids into usable energy or other compounds. The amino group is typically converted into ammonia, which is then processed by the liver and excreted from the body.
During deamination, the remaining part of the amino acid, known as the carbon skeleton, can be transformed into various intermediates that enter the Krebs cycle for energy production. This process is crucial for maintaining nitrogen balance and supporting overall metabolic functions in living organisms.