Composition and antioxidant activity of amino acids in leaves of Amaranthus tricolor L. cv. Early splendor

Material for research was fresh leaves of Amaranthus tricolor L. varieties Early Splendor. They were grown in a greenhouse (Federal Scientific Vegetable Center, Moscow region). Using GC-MS, 8 and 11 amino acids were identified in extracts of hetero- and autotrophic leaves. One of the mechanisms that provide resistance to stresses of various natures is the accumulation of free amino acids; therefore, the total content of antioxidants can serve as an indicator of plant resistance. The amino acids found in amaranth leaves have pronounced functional activity in the human body. For example, tyrosine is the most important neurotransmitter, stimulates the brain, is involved in the control of stress. In humans, the precursor of tyrosine is the essential amino acid phenylalanine, while tyrosine is formed by hydroxylation of the phenyl group of phenylalanine. In this case, the lack of the latter in food leads to a deficiency of tyrosine in the body. Tryptophan controls the body's protective and adaptive functions. Amino acids valine, leucine, glutamine, proline - stimulate the growth of beneficial intestinal flora and biomass accumulation. Thus, the amino acid composition determines the nutritional and pharmacological value of amaranth leaf biomass. This indicates that amaranth leaves are a promising raw material for creating functional products and herbal remedies.