N-Acetyl-L-alanine or N-Acetylalanine, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as N-acyl-alpha amino acids. N-acyl-alpha amino acids are compounds containing an alpha amino acid which bears an acyl group at its terminal nitrogen atom. N-Acetyl-L-alanine can also be classified as an alpha amino acid or a derivatized alpha amino acid. Technically, N-alpha-Acetyl-L-alanine is a biologically available N-terminal capped form of the proteinogenic alpha amino acid L-alanine. N-acetyl amino acids can be produced either via direct synthesis of specific N-acetyltransferases or via the proteolytic degradation of N-acetylated proteins by specific hydrolases. N-terminal acetylation of proteins is a widespread and highly conserved process in eukaryotes that is involved in protection and stability of proteins. N-Acetyl-L-alanine is a product of the enzyme known as ribosomal alanine N-acetyltransferase (EC 2.3.1.128) which catalyzes the transfer of the acetyl group of acetyl CoA to proteins bearing an N-terminal alanine. Excessive amounts N-acetyl amino acids can be detected in the urine with individuals with aminoacylase I deficiency, a genetic disorder. Individuals with aminoacylase I deficiency will experience convulsions, hearing loss and difficulty feeding. Many N-acetylamino acids, including N-acetylalanine, are classified as uremic toxins. Uremic toxins are a diverse group of endogenously produced molecules that, if not properly cleared or eliminated by the kidneys, can cause kidney damage, cardiovascular disease and neurological deficits.

Metabolism and Physiological Effects of N-Acetyl-L-Alanine References