Lysine

**Semantic type:** Amino Acid, Peptide, or Protein

**Definition:** One of nine essential amino acids in humans required for growth and tissue repair, Lysine is supplied by many foods, especially red meats, fish, and dairy products. Lysine seems to be active against herpes simplex viruses and present in many forms of diet supplements. The mechanism underlying this effect is based on the viral need for amino acid arginine; lysine competes with arginine for absorption and entry into cells. Lysine inhibits HSV growth by knocking out arginine. (NCI04)

**Synonyms:** - (S)-2,6-Diaminohexanoic acid - LYSINE - Lys