What Does ALS Stand For?

ALS stands for Acetolactate Synthase

Acetolactate Synthase (ALS) is an essential enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of branched-chain amino acids, specifically isoleucine and valine, from pyruvate. It catalyzes the condensation of two molecules of pyruvate to form acetolactate, which is a key precursor in the metabolic pathway leading to these amino acids. ALS plays a critical role in plant metabolism and is a target for certain herbicides, making it significant in agricultural biotechnology.

Other Meanings for ALS