What is Glycine ? Glycine is one of the simplest kinds of amino acids occurring in nature. Amino acids are the essential components for all metabolic activities and life processes of human beings. It is one among the list of 20 amino acids, which are important to human life. Glycine has a chemical formula C 2 H 5 NO 2. It is the smallest of all the amino acids and consists of a side chain along with a hydrogen molecule as shown in the figure below. Glycine was isolated in the year 1820 from a ... Learn about glycine , the simplest amino acid, and its roles in protein synthesis, collagen production, neurotransmission, and antioxidant defense. Discover its natural and non-natural derivatives, sources, and applications in various industries. Glycine is a non-essential amino acid, implying that our bodies are able to produce it. Like many other amino acids, this one is used to help create muscle tissues and convert glucose into energy.