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Serum Glycine Level (Mass Concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of glycine, a simple amino acid found in your blood. Glycine plays a role in protein synthesis and metabolism.

Quick summary

["Understanding your glycine levels can help assess certain metabolic or liver conditions."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
47634-1
Short code
Glycine SFr SerPl
Synonyms
Glycine SFr SerPl
Category
glucose
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, or unexplained metabolic issues. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions affecting protein metabolism or liver function.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if your test involves a fasting sample. Wear a loose shirt for easy access to your arm.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect a blood sample. You may feel a slight pinch, but the procedure usually takes just a few minutes.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your overall health, symptoms, and medical history. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions like glycine encephalopathy, liver disease, or other metabolic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Glycine Blood Test

Frequently asked questions

What are the normal results for this test?
Normal glycine levels can vary slightly between labs, and reference ranges are not universally standardized. Your provider will compare your results to your specific lab’s reference values and your clinical picture to determine if further action is needed.
Can high or low glycine levels cause health problems?
Extremely high or low glycine levels may suggest underlying metabolic disorders, liver disease, or other conditions affecting amino acid metabolism. Your provider will assess these findings alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of this test depends on your medical condition and symptoms. Your healthcare provider will determine the timing based on your individual care plan, such as monitoring metabolic health or evaluating liver function.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy