L-aspartic acid (Asp)

L-aspartic acid is a non-essential dicarboxylic amino acid that serves as a fundamental building block for protein synthesis and a key intermediate in several metabolic pathways (PubChem CID 5960). It plays a vital role in the urea cycle by reacting with citrulline to form argininosuccinate, aiding in the detoxification of ammonia (StatPearls, Urea Cycle). In the central nervous system, L-aspartic acid functions as an excitatory neurotransmitter that activates N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, contributing to synaptic plasticity and signaling (PubMed, PMID: 1839449). Beyond its physiological roles, aspartate metabolism is often targeted in oncology; for instance, the enzyme L-asparaginase depletes asparagine and aspartate levels to inhibit the growth of certain leukemic cells (NIH, National Cancer Institute). Dysregulation of aspartate levels is associated with neurodegenerative conditions due to potential excitotoxicity and is a marker in liver function tests via aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels (Mayo Clinic).

Other names

AspartateL-aspartate(S)-2-aminobutanedioic acidAspartic acid

L-aspartic acid acts as an endogenous agonist at NMDA receptors and serves as a key substrate in the urea cycle and malate-aspartate shuttle.