Final answer:
The body can synthesize nonessential amino acids such as alanine, arginine, asparagine, among others. They are not required in the diet and contribute to the body's amino acid pool for various metabolic processes.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nonessential amino acids are those that our bodies can synthesize on their own. These include alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, proline, serine, and tyrosine. Unlike the nine amino acids classified as essential, which must be obtained through the diet, the body can produce nonessential amino acids using components from other molecules or by breaking down and reusing amino acids and nitrogen-containing compounds.
The synthesis of nonessential amino acids is a vital process, as it contributes to the amino acid pool of the body. This pool is then utilized for various metabolic processes including protein synthesis, production of DNA bases, neurotransmitters, and hormones. Excess amino acids that are not used are eventually degraded, with the nitrogen being excreted as urea in urine.