L-Carnitine

L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring amino acid derivative crucial for energy production within cells. It transports fatty acids to the mitochondria, where they are converted into energy. Supplementing with L-Carnitine may enhance energy levels, endurance, and exercise performance.

• Cardiovascular Health: L-Carnitine may support cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering blood pressure, and improving lipid profiles (Trifunovic et al., 2017).
• Physical Performance and Exercise: Supplementation may improve exercise performance, reduce fatigue, and enhance recovery by increasing energy production and reducing oxidative stress (Wall et al., 2011).
• Cognitive Function: L-Carnitine may have neuroprotective effects, improving cognitive function, memory, and mood in individuals with cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease (Pettegrew et al., 2000).
• Metabolic Health: L-Carnitine may improve insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism, and weight management, potentially aiding in type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome (Duran et al., 2018).
• Neuroprotection and Antioxidant Activity: L-Carnitine has antioxidant properties, potentially protecting against neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation (Fang et al., 2017).
• Muscle Function and Sarcopenia: Supplementation may improve muscle function, reduce muscle damage, and increase muscle mass, particularly in older adults with sarcopenia (Malaguarnera et al., 2018).
• Kidney Function and Disease: L-Carnitine may improve kidney function, reduce inflammation, and slow disease progression in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD) (Kazemzadeh et al., 2018).
• Male Fertility and Reproductive Health: L-Carnitine may improve sperm quality, motility, and fertility in men with infertility and androgen deficiency (Lenzi et al., 2004).
• Anti-Aging and Mitochondrial Function: L-Carnitine may improve mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and promote anti-aging effects.

L-Carnitine facilitates the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for energy production. It regulates energy production, reduces oxidative stress, and influences cellular processes.

• Mechanism of Action:

  • Activation of Fatty Acids: Long-chain fatty acids are activated by Coenzyme A (CoA) to form acyl-CoA.
  • Formation of Acyl-Carnitine: CPT1, on the outer mitochondrial membrane, catalyzes the transfer of the acyl group from acyl-CoA to L-Carnitine, forming acyl-carnitine.
  • Transport across the Inner Mitochondrial Membrane: Acyl-carnitine is transported across the inner mitochondrial membrane by the carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase.
  • Regeneration of Acyl-CoA: Inside the mitochondria, CPT2 catalyzes the transfer of the acyl group from acyl-carnitine back to CoA, regenerating acyl-CoA, which can then undergo beta-oxidation to produce energy.

• Pathways Affected:

  • Fatty Acid Oxidation: L-Carnitine regulates the rate of fatty acid oxidation, essential for energy production.
  • Krebs Cycle (Citric Acid Cycle): Acetyl-CoA from fatty acid oxidation enters the Krebs cycle, generating ATP, NADH, and FADH2.
  • Electron Transport Chain: Electrons from NADH and FADH2 are passed through the electron transport chain, producing ATP.
  • Antioxidant Defense: L-Carnitine has antioxidant properties.

L-Carnitine, also known as levocarnitine, is a compound crucial for transporting fatty acids into mitochondria for energy production.

• Molecular Formula: C₇H₁₅NO₃
• IUPAC Name: (R)-3-Hydroxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butyrate

• Key Structural Features:

  • L-Carnitine is a quaternary ammonium compound with a hydroxyl group (-OH), a carboxyl group (-COOH), and a trimethylammonium group (-N+(CH₃)₃).
  • The molecule has a chiral center at the 3-position.
  • Hydroxyl group (-OH): Involved in hydrogen bond formation.
  • Carboxyl group (-COOH): Responsible for acidity and salt formation.
  • Trimethylammonium group (-N+(CH₃)₃): Positively charged, contributing to water solubility and ionic interactions.

• Properties:

  • Physical State: White, crystalline powder
  • Solubility: Highly soluble in water, slightly soluble in ethanol and methanol
  • pKa: 3.77 (carboxyl group)
  • pH: 6.5-7.5 (in aqueous solution)
  • Melting Point: 197-200°C
  • Molecular Weight: 161.20 g/mol

L-Carnitine is a zwitterion, essential for energy production in the heart, skeletal muscle, and other tissues.

L-Carnitine can be sourced from natural sources, extracted, or synthesized.

• Natural Sources:

  • Meat and poultry: High concentrations in red meat, especially beef, lamb, and pork. Organ meats like liver and kidney are also rich in L-Carnitine.
  • Fish and seafood: Salmon, cod, and shrimp are good sources.
  • Dairy products: Milk, cheese, and yogurt contain smaller amounts.
  • Plants: Soybeans, avocados, and whole grains contain small amounts.

• Extraction/ Synthesis Methods:

  • Chemical synthesis
  • Fermentation
  • Extraction from animal sources

• Quality Considerations for Supplements:

  • Purity: High purity (>99%)
  • Stability: Stable formulations and packaging.
  • Form: L-Carnitine, L-Carnitine L-Tartrate, and Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR).
  • Manufacturing process: Follow Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) and have third-party testing and certification.
  • Label claims: Realistic and scientifically-backed claims.
  • Allergen and contaminant testing.