Taurine (β-amino acid ethane sulfonic acid; TAU) is a sulfur-containing
amino acid abundant in the human body. Although TAU does not corporate in the
protein structure, many vital physiological properties have been attributed to this amino
acid. TAU could be synthesized endogenously in hepatocytes or come from nutritional
sources. It has been found that the source of body TAU varies significantly between
different species. For instance, some species, such as foxes and felines, are entirely
dependent on the nutritional sources of TAU. On the other hand, TAU is readily
synthesized in the liver of animals such as rats and dogs. The TAU synthesis capability
of the human liver is negligible, and we receive this amino acid from food sources. The
distribution of TAU also greatly varies between various tissues. Skeletal muscle and
the heart tissue contain a very high concentration of TAU. At subcellular levels,
mitochondria are the primary targets for TAU compartmentalization. It has been found
that TUA also entered the nucleus and endoplasmic reticulum. The current chapter
discusses the synthetic process and dietary sources of TAU. Then, the transition of
TAU to sub-cellular compartments will be addressed. Finally, the importance of TAU
homeostasis in the pathogenesis of human disease is mentioned.
Keywords: Amino acid, Food sources, Human disease, Mitochondrion, Mitochondrial cytopathies, Nutraceuticals, Nutrition.
