High cysteine levels trigger iron release and cell death
Researchers published new findings in Nature Metabolism explaining why high concentrations of the amino acid cysteine are toxic to cells.
Cysteine steals iron from storage
New research shows that excess cysteine pulls iron out of ferritin. This protein complex normally holds the metal safely inside. The released iron then floods the cell and accumulates in mitochondria.
Iron buildup kills the cell
The accumulation of free iron leads directly to cell death. Cells usually convert cysteine into glutathione to avoid this danger. Keeping free cysteine levels low protects the energy generator within the cell.
Evolutionary protection mechanism
Scientists say nature evolved to minimize free cysteine for a reason. Relying on cysteine instead of glutathione would have been catastrophic. The findings resolve a long-standing question about basic biology.
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