Leucine Unit Converter

Leucine is an essential branched-chain amino acid (BCAA), one of three along with isoleucine and valine. Because the body cannot make it, leucine must come entirely from food or supplements.

A plasma leucine test measures the concentration of this amino acid in your blood. It is typically ordered as part of a quantitative plasma amino acid panel, which evaluates dozens of amino acids at once.

Leucine is best known as a powerful activator of muscle protein synthesis. Abnormal levels can point to nutritional problems, liver disease, or inherited metabolic disorders such as maple syrup urine disease (MSUD).

Leucine is obtained entirely from the diet. Rich sources include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, soybeans, and legumes.