Taurine, a Non-Proteinous Essential Amino Acid for Human Body Systems: An Overview

Taurine, a non-proteinous essential amino acid, is present in nearly all mammalian tissues and plays a key role in various physiological functions. It is primarily obtained through diet, especially from shellfish and meat, and is also found in energy drinks. Taurine deficiency is linked to disorders in numerous organs, including the eye, heart, kidney, liver, and brain. Taurine supplementation has shown benefits for everyone from newborns to the elderly. In newborns, taurine deficiency can lead to retinal impairment and neurological defects, while in the elderly, it can benefit those with liver problems, severe renal failure, and various heart conditions. Taurine also plays a significant role in reducing oxidative stress, preventing retinopathies, influencing kidney diseases, and protecting against neurodegenerative conditions. It has been licensed for the treatment of congestive heart failure in Japan and may have a role in hair treatment, as it improves the survival rate of isolated human hair follicles when cultivated in vitro.