Valine
VAL
Description
"Valine" test measures valine levels in the blood to assess protein metabolism and overall nutritional balance. It’s commonly used to screen for amino acid imbalances, monitor metabolic disorders like maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), or evaluate protein intake. Abnormal levels may suggest amino acid depletion, enzyme-related issues, or metabolic dysfunction. This test is helpful for diagnosing causes of slowed recovery, muscle weakness, or developmental delays. Results guide personalized treatment, including dietary adjustments, supplements, or further testing to maintain balance.
Category
Amino Acids
Procedure
Invasive
Sample Type
Blood – Plasma
Units
Micromoles Per Liter
Procedure Category
Blood Draw
Test Group
Amino Acid Group
Test Group Description
Amino Acid Group: Tests in this group analyze amino acid levels in the body, providing valuable insights into protein metabolism and potential genetic or metabolic disorders related to amino acid processing.
Optimal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 150.00–310.00 µmol/L
SI Unit: 150.00–310.00 µmol/L
Normal Range
For All Individuals:
Conventional Unit: 102.60–345.40 µmol/L
SI Unit: 102.60–345.40 µmol/L
Results That Differ From The Norm (Direct and Indirect Causes)
Increased levels may indicate:
Cirrhosis (Liver condition characterized by scarring)
Hepatitis (Inflammation of the liver)
High protein consumption
Isovaleric acidemia (Inherited metabolic disorder affecting the breakdown of certain amino acids)
Maple syrup urine disease (MSUD) (Genetic disorder affecting amino acid metabolism)
- ...
Key Reasons For Testing
Amino Acid Analysis: Measures valine to assess protein composition and amino acid profiles.
Branched-Chain Amino Acid Metabolism: Evaluates valine's role in metabolic pathways and BCAA metabolism.
Muscle Protein Synthesis: Supports muscle growth, repair, and maintenance.
Genetic Disorders: Identifies metabolic abnormalities like maple syrup urine disease (MSUD).
Nutritional Assessment: Assesses essential amino acid levels for dietary planning and health.
Health Status Conditions It May Be Used To Assess
Currently, this test is not directly associated with any conditions listed on the Health Status page. However, it may be included as part of a broader set of tests linked to specific health conditions.
Some Prominent Medical Labs That May Offer This Test
Please note that this particular test has not been associated with any of the listed prominent medical labs. We recommend enquiring with your private physician or nearest hospital to determine where this specific test can be performed.
References
Important Note
Any medical procedure yielding results outside the norm may be directly or indirectly linked to the conditions outlined on this page. Various factors, including genetics, medication and supplement usage, recent illnesses, pregnancy, pre-test eating, smoking, and stress, can impact the test's outcome. Additionally, factors like false positives, false negatives, inaccurate analyses, and others can influence results.
Reference ranges, which help healthcare professionals interpret medical tests, may vary depending on age, gender, and other factors. They may also differ between laboratories due to variations in instruments and methods used. Optimal ranges are designed for preventive purposes, aiming to identify trends and potential risks early, while normal ranges reflect conventional laboratory values indicating no current disease or pathology. Your healthcare practitioner may have specific reasons for testing that deviate from the usual or may interpret results differently based on individual circumstances. Proper interpretation typically involves considering clinical findings and other diagnostic tests. Hence, it is crucial to provide your healthcare professionals with a comprehensive medical history, consult with them for result interpretation, and follow their guidance for potential re-testing or additional diagnostics.
Disclaimer
This content is provided solely for informative and educational purposes. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. Regarding the interpretation of their medical test results and/or specific health questions, it is recommended that all readers and viewers consult their physicians or other qualified health professionals. The publisher is not responsible for any adverse health effects that may result from reading or following the information in this educational content. Before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program, all viewers, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physician or health care practitioner.
Please note that while prominent lab names are included in this content, we cannot guarantee that these labs offer all the tests mentioned. For confirmation, individuals should contact the labs directly or consult their medical practitioners. The information provided reflects general knowledge at the time of publication and may not include recent updates or emerging research. Readers should verify details with qualified professionals to ensure the most up-to-date and accurate guidance.
[1] Chuang DT, Chuang JL, Wynn RM. Branched-Chain Amino Acid Metabolism: Implications for Human Disease. Annu Rev Nutr. 2006;26:301-321.
[2] Scaini G, Ferreira GK, Streck EL, et al. The Role of Branched-Chain Amino Acids in Protein Metabolism and Insulin Resistance. J Cell Biochem. 2014;115(8):1411-1417.
[3] Newgard CB, An J, Bain JR, et al. A Branched-Chain Amino Acid-Related Metabolic Signature That Differentiates Obese and Lean Humans and Contributes to Insulin Resistance. Cell Metab. 2009;9(4):311-326.
[4] Duggleby RG, Tolun AA, Mekechuk MC. Mutations in the Active Site of Acetohydroxyacid Synthase: Effects on Valine and Isoleucine Biosynthesis. J Bacteriol. 1998;180(13):3303-3310.
[5] Pedersen HK, Gudmundsdottir V, Nielsen HB, et al. Human Gut Microbiota Impacts Branched-Chain Amino Acid Catabolism in Serum. Mol Syst Biol. 2016;12(7):870.
[6] Holecek M. Branched-Chain Amino Acids in Health and Disease: Metabolism, Alterations in Blood Plasma, and as Supplements. Nutr Metab (Lond). 2018;15:33.
[7] Wolfe RR. Branched-Chain Amino Acids and Muscle Protein Synthesis in Humans: Myth or Reality? J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2017;14:30.
[8] Felig P, Wahren J. Amino Acid Metabolism in Exercise. Clin Physiol Biochem. 1982;4(1):71-79.
[9] Matsuzawa Y, Funahashi T, Nakamura T. The Concept of Metabolically Obese Normal Weight Person and Implications for Obesity Paradox in Coronary Artery Disease. Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2014;56(4):415-421.
[10] Anderson SG, Edwards JG, Howe JA. Plasma Valine as a Marker for Metabolic Disorders: Implications for Diagnostics. Clin Chem. 2016;62(11):1420-1426.
[11] Harper AE, Miller RH, Block KP. Branched-Chain Amino Acid Metabolism. Annu Rev Nutr. 1984;4:409-454.
[12] Gannon MC, Nuttall FQ. Effect of Dietary Protein on the Glucose Response to Ingested Glucose in Type II Diabetes. Diabetes Care. 1988;11(2):121-126.
[13] Doi M, Yamaoka I, Nakayama M, Sugahara K, Yoshizawa F. Role of Branched-Chain Amino Acids in Glucose Metabolism in Humans. J Nutr. 2003;133(11):3545S-3548S.