L-Cystine is the oxidized disulfide dimer of L-Cysteine, consisting of two L-Cysteine molecules linked by a disulfide bond. It is naturally abundant in keratin-rich proteins found in hair, skin, nails, and connective tissues.
In the food and supplement industries, L-Cystine is valued for its role in structural protein synthesis and as a source of bioavailable sulfur. It is produced through hydrolysis of keratin-containing raw materials or by microbial fermentation, followed by purification to food-grade standards. L-Cystine's low solubility in water distinguishes it from L-Cysteine and influences its formulation in specific delivery formats.
