Acetyl-L-carnitine

Acetyl-L-carnitine (pronounced as a-set-il el kar-ni-teen) is a compound that is naturally produced by the body and is involved in various metabolic processes. It is a derivative of two other compounds, L-carnitine and acetyl-CoA, and is often used as a dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits.

Etymology

The term "Acetyl-L-carnitine" is derived from its two parent compounds. "Acetyl" comes from "acetyl-CoA", a molecule involved in many biochemical reactions in protein, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. "L-carnitine" is derived from the Latin "carnus", meaning "flesh", as it was first isolated from meat.

Function

Acetyl-L-carnitine plays a crucial role in the production of energy by transporting long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondria where they are oxidized to produce energy. It also transports toxic compounds out of the mitochondria to prevent accumulation.

Health Benefits

Acetyl-L-carnitine has been studied for its potential health benefits, particularly in relation to neurological and cognitive health. It is believed to improve memory, mood, and cognitive function, particularly in individuals with certain neurological conditions. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Related Terms

• L-carnitine
• Acetyl-CoA
• Mitochondria
• Metabolism
• Neurological conditions
• Cognitive function

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Acetyl-L-carnitine
• Wikipedia's article - Acetyl-L-carnitine

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