Acetylcarnitine: Difference between revisions
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{{ | {{DISPLAYTITLE:Acetylcarnitine}} | ||
'''Acetylcarnitine''' | == Overview == | ||
[[File:Acetylcarnitine.svg|thumb|right|Chemical structure of acetylcarnitine]] | |||
'''Acetylcarnitine''', also known as '''acetyl-L-carnitine''' (ALCAR), is an [[acetylated]] form of [[L-carnitine]], a naturally occurring [[amino acid]] derivative. It is involved in the metabolism of [[fatty acids]] and plays a crucial role in the production of [[energy]] within the [[mitochondria]] of [[cells]]. | |||
== | == Biochemical Role == | ||
Acetylcarnitine | Acetylcarnitine facilitates the transport of [[fatty acids]] into the [[mitochondria]], where they undergo [[beta-oxidation]] to produce [[adenosine triphosphate]] (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. This process is essential for the generation of energy, especially in [[muscle]] and [[heart]] tissues. | ||
== | == Mechanism of Action == | ||
Acetylcarnitine | Acetylcarnitine acts as a carrier molecule, binding to fatty acids to form [[acyl-carnitine]] complexes. These complexes are then transported across the mitochondrial membrane by the [[carnitine shuttle]], a system that includes [[carnitine palmitoyltransferase I]] (CPT I), [[carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase]], and [[carnitine palmitoyltransferase II]] (CPT II). | ||
== Clinical Significance == | |||
Acetylcarnitine has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in various conditions, including [[neurological disorders]], [[cardiovascular diseases]], and [[metabolic syndromes]]. It is believed to have [[neuroprotective]] properties and may improve [[cognitive function]] in certain populations. | |||
== | == Supplementation == | ||
Acetylcarnitine is | Acetylcarnitine is available as a dietary supplement and is often used to support [[energy metabolism]], enhance [[mental clarity]], and promote [[fat loss]]. It is considered safe for most individuals when taken at recommended dosages. | ||
* | == Related Compounds == | ||
* [[L-carnitine]] | |||
* | * [[Propionyl-L-carnitine]] | ||
* [[Carnitine palmitoyltransferase]] | |||
== Related Pages == | |||
==Related | |||
* [[Fatty acid metabolism]] | * [[Fatty acid metabolism]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Mitochondrial function]] | ||
* [[ | * [[Energy metabolism]] | ||
[[Category:Biochemistry]] | [[Category:Biochemistry]] | ||
[[Category:Nutrition]] | |||
[[Category:Metabolism]] | [[Category:Metabolism]] | ||
Latest revision as of 11:35, 15 February 2025
Overview[edit]

Acetylcarnitine, also known as acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR), is an acetylated form of L-carnitine, a naturally occurring amino acid derivative. It is involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and plays a crucial role in the production of energy within the mitochondria of cells.
Biochemical Role[edit]
Acetylcarnitine facilitates the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, where they undergo beta-oxidation to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell. This process is essential for the generation of energy, especially in muscle and heart tissues.
Mechanism of Action[edit]
Acetylcarnitine acts as a carrier molecule, binding to fatty acids to form acyl-carnitine complexes. These complexes are then transported across the mitochondrial membrane by the carnitine shuttle, a system that includes carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT I), carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase, and carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT II).
Clinical Significance[edit]
Acetylcarnitine has been studied for its potential therapeutic effects in various conditions, including neurological disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndromes. It is believed to have neuroprotective properties and may improve cognitive function in certain populations.
Supplementation[edit]
Acetylcarnitine is available as a dietary supplement and is often used to support energy metabolism, enhance mental clarity, and promote fat loss. It is considered safe for most individuals when taken at recommended dosages.