What is amino acid racemization?

Question

A brief explanation would be great..

Thanks.

Answer 1

Racemization is the process in which one enantiomer of a compound, such as an L-amino acid, converts to the other enantiomer. The compound then alternates between each form while the ratio between the (+) and (–) groups approaches 1:1, at which point it becomes optically inactive.

Since (+) and (–) are experimental parameters, the absolute configuration of atoms in chiral molecules are commonly described using R and S, from the Latin rectus (right-handed) and sinistrus (left-handed). An older convention, commonly used by biochemists to describe amino acids and sugars, uses the letters D and L to designate absolute configuration

In a laboratory setting, scientists are able to measure the degree of racemization using polarimetry, liquid chromatography, capillary electrophoresis, and mass spectrometry. With these measurements, scientists can estimate the rate at which one enantiomer is converted to the other. Currently, these techniques are used to estimate the age of fossils, determine the life span of bowhead whales, and detect evidence of extraterrestrial life.

Answer 2

Racemization is applied to organic materials (or fossil materials) such as human and animal bones, teeth, plants, ostrich egg shells, mollusks, marine sediments, freshwater and marine shells, oyster shells, carbonate shells (foraminifera, snails, clams, ostracods,) calcareous sediments and peats. It is used to determine the age of the fossils