Fundamentals of Biochemistry: Life at the Molecular Level 5th Edition

Published by Wiley
ISBN 10: 1118918401
ISBN 13: 978-1-11891-840-1

Chapter 21 - Amino Acid Metabolism - Exercises - Page 772: 30

Answer

When high levels of dietary protein are consumed, ammonia levels in the body increase as a result of protein degradation. To efficiently remove the excess ammonia, the body increases the production of the enzymes that catalyze the reactions of the urea cycle. These enzymes help convert toxic ammonia to nontoxic urea which can then be excreted in the urine.

Work Step by Step

When high levels of dietary protein are consumed, ammonia levels in the body increase as a result of protein degradation. To efficiently remove the excess ammonia, the body increases the production of the enzymes that catalyze the reactions of the urea cycle. These enzymes help convert toxic ammonia to nontoxic urea which can then be excreted in the urine.
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