Influence of beta-alanine supplementation on skeletal muscle carnosine concentrations and high intensity cycling capacity

Amino Acids. 2007 Feb;32(2):225-33. doi: 10.1007/s00726-006-0364-4. Epub 2006 Jul 28.

Abstract

Muscle carnosine synthesis is limited by the availability of beta-alanine. Thirteen male subjects were supplemented with beta-alanine (CarnoSyn) for 4 wks, 8 of these for 10 wks. A biopsy of the vastus lateralis was obtained from 6 of the 8 at 0, 4 and 10 wks. Subjects undertook a cycle capacity test to determine total work done (TWD) at 110% (CCT(110%)) of their maximum power (Wmax). Twelve matched subjects received a placebo. Eleven of these completed the CCT(110%) at 0 and 4 wks, and 8, 10 wks. Muscle biopsies were obtained from 5 of the 8 and one additional subject. Muscle carnosine was significantly increased by +58.8% and +80.1% after 4 and 10 wks beta-alanine supplementation. Carnosine, initially 1.71 times higher in type IIa fibres, increased equally in both type I and IIa fibres. No increase was seen in control subjects. Taurine was unchanged by 10 wks of supplementation. 4 wks beta-alanine supplementation resulted in a significant increase in TWD (+13.0%); with a further +3.2% increase at 10 wks. TWD was unchanged at 4 and 10 wks in the control subjects. The increase in TWD with supplementation followed the increase in muscle carnosine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biopsy
  • Carnosine / biosynthesis*
  • Carnosine / metabolism
  • Dietary Supplements*
  • Drug Administration Schedule
  • Exercise Test
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Male
  • Models, Biological
  • Muscle, Skeletal / drug effects
  • Muscle, Skeletal / metabolism*
  • Protons
  • Taurine / metabolism
  • Time Factors
  • beta-Alanine / administration & dosage*
  • beta-Alanine / pharmacology*

Substances

  • Protons
  • beta-Alanine
  • Taurine
  • Carnosine