CARNOSINE Meaning and
Definition
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Carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide molecule composed of the amino acids histidine and alanine. It is primarily found in high concentrations in the brain, muscles, and other tissues throughout the body.
As a powerful antioxidant, carnosine plays a key role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by harmful free radicals. It helps to neutralize these reactive molecules, preventing them from causing harm to proteins, lipids, and DNA within the cells.
Additionally, carnosine is involved in various physiological functions within the body. It helps to regulate pH levels, maintaining the acid-base balance within cells. This capacity to buffer and stabilize pH levels is particularly important in tissues such as muscle, where the production of lactic acid during exercise can lead to increased acidity.
Carnosine also possesses anti-glycation properties, which means it can prevent the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs are compounds that can accumulate in tissues over time and contribute to various age-related diseases and complications, including diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, and cardiovascular disorders. By inhibiting the formation of AGEs, carnosine helps to maintain cellular health and prevent age-related damage.
Overall, carnosine is a multifunctional compound with antioxidant, pH-regulating, and anti-glycation properties. Its diverse benefits make it a promising substance for potential therapeutic interventions and for promoting overall health and wellness.
Common Misspellings for CARNOSINE
Etymology of CARNOSINE
The word "carnosine" is derived from the Latin term "caro", which means "flesh" or "meat". The suffix "-osine" is added to signify a naturally occurring compound. In this case, carnosine is named due to its presence and abundance in meat, especially in muscle tissue. The etymology of the word links its origin to the source from which it was initially discovered.
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