NANP Board Practice Exam

Creatine is primarily synthesized from which amino acids?

1. Alanine and Lysine

2. Arginine and Glycine

3. Arginine and Lysine

4. Glycine and Methionine

The correct answer is: Arginine and Glycine

Creatine is primarily synthesized in the body from the amino acids arginine and glycine. The synthesis process occurs mainly in the kidneys and liver, where arginine and glycine are combined to create creatine, with the assistance of another amino acid called methionine in subsequent steps. This biochemical pathway highlights the importance of arginine and glycine in the formation of creatine, which plays a vital role in energy metabolism, particularly in muscle tissue. The other combinations of amino acids listed do not contribute significantly to the creatine synthesis pathway. While alanine and lysine are both important amino acids, they do not have a direct role in the production of creatine. Similarly, while lysine is included in one of the choices, it is not one of the main contributors to creatine synthesis. Glycine does play a crucial role, but its presence alongside methionine does not align with the primary sources for creatine production.