noun
- Plural of ornithine; amino acids produced in the body that play a key role in the urea cycle and protein metabolism.
Usage: biochemistry; technical
Examples
- Ornithines are essential intermediates in the urea cycle, which removes excess nitrogen from the body.
- The concentration of ornithines in blood plasma can indicate liver function.
- Researchers measured ornithines levels to assess the patient's metabolic status.
- Ornithines are synthesized from arginine through enzymatic reactions.
- Dietary supplements containing ornithines are sometimes used by athletes for muscle recovery.