: a crystalline amino acid C6H12N2O4S2 that is widespread in proteins (such as keratins) and is a major metabolic sulfur source
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the WebWhen someone has cystinosis, their body builds up an abnormal amount of cystine. Joshua Hawkins, BGR, 27 June 2022 With the new cells in, his white blood cells began pumping out the protein, clearing away the cystine crystals that had accumulated. Joshua Hawkins, BGR, 27 June 2022 The lysosomal storage disease is caused by an abnormal buildup of cystine, one of the body's essential amino acids. Giovana Gelhoren, PEOPLE.com, 23 Apr. 2022 Cystine stones Cystine stones are due to a genetic disorder called cystinuria that causes the amino acid cystine to leak out of the kidneys and into the urine, the NIDDK explains. Carolyn L. Todd, SELF, 12 Nov. 2019 If successful, the treatment will reduce the abnormal buildup of the amino acid cystine, which causes the disease.San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 June 2019 The defect causes the amino acid cystine to accumulate to toxic levels in tissues throughout the body, doing particular damage to the kidneys.Quanta Magazine, 23 Apr. 2018 See More
Word History
Etymology
from its discovery in bladder stones
First Known Use
1843, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
cystine
noun
cys·tine ˈsis-ˌtēn
: an amino acid C6H12N2O4S2 that is a dimer of cysteine, is widespread in proteins (as keratins), and is a major metabolic sulfur source