Whole-body protein balance

Whole-body protein balance refers to the net difference between the rates of total body protein synthesis and breakdown. It is not a single molecule or receptor but rather a physiological state describing whether the body is gaining, losing, or maintaining its overall protein mass[4][6]. This concept is central in nutrition science and clinical medicine for assessing nutritional status, muscle health, recovery from illness or trauma, and response to dietary interventions. Measurement often involves tracking nitrogen intake versus excretion (nitrogen balance), as proteins are the primary source of dietary nitrogen[5]. A positive whole-body protein balance indicates net tissue growth or repair; a negative one suggests catabolism or inadequate intake[4][6]. "Whole-body protein balance" is not a molecular target such as an enzyme, receptor, transporter, etc., but rather describes an aggregate physiological process involving many different proteins and pathways throughout the body. Therefore it should not be considered a canonical therapeutic target for drug development purposes—entries referring to it as such are incorrect[4][6].

Other names

Protein turnoverNitrogen balanceProtein equilibrium