Carnosine as a natural antioxidant and geroprotector: from molecular mechanisms to clinical trials

Rejuvenation Res. 2010 Apr-Jun;13(2-3):156-8. doi: 10.1089/rej.2009.0923.

Abstract

Carnosine is a neuroprotective dipeptide consisting of beta-alanine and L-histidine. It demonstrates a number of useful features, including stimulation of brain and muscle microcirculation and a rejuvenating effect on cultured cells. Its activity is based on its antioxidant and antiglycating action that, in addition to heavy metal chelation and pH-buffering ability, makes carnosine an essential factor for preventing neurodegeneration and accumulation of senile features. Recently, carnosine was successfully used to treat patients after brain stroke or patients with Parkinson disease. We conclude that carnosine can be recommended for patients under oxidative stress as a natural remedy having high efficiency and no side effects.

Publication types

  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aging / drug effects*
  • Aging / genetics
  • Aging / metabolism
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use
  • Biological Products / pharmacology
  • Biological Products / therapeutic use
  • Carnosine / pharmacology*
  • Carnosine / therapeutic use*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic*
  • Cytoprotection / drug effects
  • Cytoprotection / genetics
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological
  • Neurons / drug effects*
  • Neurons / metabolism
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Signal Transduction / drug effects
  • Signal Transduction / genetics

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Biological Products
  • Carnosine