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[Glycine: a cell-protecting anti-oxidant nutrient]
B Matilla1, J L Mauriz, J M Culebras
1Departamento de Fisiología, Universidad de León, 24071 León.
Nutricion Hospitalaria
|April 10, 2002
Summary
Glycine, the simplest amino acid, demonstrates significant therapeutic potential across various diseases. Research shows glycine offers protection against shock, reduces alcohol toxicity, and prevents drug-induced organ damage.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Medicine
Context:
- Dietary glycine is increasingly recognized for its therapeutic benefits.
- Despite initial skepticism, substantial evidence supports glycine's efficacy in disease states.
Purpose:
- To review the multifaceted beneficial effects of glycine.
- To elucidate the underlying mechanisms responsible for glycine's protective actions.
Summary:
- Glycine administration protects against shock (endotoxin, blood loss), reduces gastric alcohol levels, and aids recovery from alcoholic hepatitis.
- It mitigates liver injury from hepatotoxic drugs, prevents cyclosporine A-induced nephrotoxicity by inhibiting hypoxia and free radical formation.
- Glycine's ability to diminish cytokine production suggests potential in treating inflammatory diseases.
Impact:
- Glycine's diverse protective effects highlight its potential as a therapeutic agent.
- Understanding glycine's mechanisms could lead to its wider application in clinical practice.
- This review supports considering glycine for treating various conditions, including inflammatory diseases and organ toxicities.