The acetyl derivative of L-carnitine. Like L-carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine is involved in the metabolism of protein, carbohydrates and fats, as well as the conversion of fats into energy and triglyceride metabolism. Acetyl-L-carnitine crosses the blood brain barrier more readily than L-carnitine, has antioxidant properties, and because it has an affinity for nerve cells, may especially provide antioxidant protection for neuronal integrity.
Acetyl-L-carnitine supplementation has been shown to support glutathione and CoQ10 levels. It mimics acetylcholine and therefore may positively affect the brain chemistry involved with memory and moods, as well as energy production in the brain. Free form amino acid, high purity, well tolerated.
The main function of L-carnitine is to transfer long-chain fatty acids in the form of their acyl-carnitine esters across the inner mitochondrial membrane before beta-oxidation. In humans it is synthesized in the liver, kidney, and brain and actively transported to other areas of the body. For example, 98% of the total body L-carnitine is confined to the skeletal and cardiac muscle at concentrations approximately 70 times higher than in the blood serum.