isoleucine

noun

iso·​leu·​cine ˌī-sō-ˈlü-ˌsēn How to pronounce isoleucine (audio)
: a crystalline, hydrophobic, essential amino acid C6H13NO2 that is obtained in its levorotatory l-form by the hydrolysis of dietary protein and is isomeric with leucine

Examples of isoleucine in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Interactions The following interactions should be noted when taking isoleucine: Diabetes medications: Since isoleucine has been shown to lower blood sugar levels, using isoleucine in combination with diabetes medications may cause blood sugar levels to drop too low. — Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 26 Nov. 2024 Therefore, using isoleucine and valine in combination with leucine can lower leucine uptake by intestinal and muscle cells.19 How isoleucine and leucine work to lower blood sugar levels also differs. — Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 26 Nov. 2024

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First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of isoleucine was in 1903

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“Isoleucine.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/isoleucine. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

isoleucine

noun
iso·​leu·​cine ˌī-sō-ˈlü-ˌsēn How to pronounce isoleucine (audio)
: a crystalline essential amino acid C6H13NO2 isomeric with leucine
—abbreviation Ile

More from Merriam-Webster on isoleucine

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about isoleucine

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