Creatine and the Liver: Metabolism and Possible Interactions

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Metabolic pathways
• Physiology

Background:

• Creatine synthesis involves L-arginine:glycine amidinotransferase (AGAT) and guanidinoacetate N-methyltransferase (GAMT) in the kidney and liver.
• Creatine functions as an energy and pH buffer, requiring dietary or de novo synthesis for maintenance.
• Supplementation impacts S-adenosyl methionine consumption and homocysteine production, offering benefits for fatty liver and non-alcoholic liver disease.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the known benefits and potential adverse effects of creatine supplementation.
• To highlight creatine's role in energy metabolism, neuroprotection, and athletic performance.
• To address the limited understanding of creatine's safety profile and potential toxicity.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on creatine synthesis, metabolism, and supplementation.
• Analysis of research on creatine's effects on liver function, brain energy, and athletic performance.
• Examination of studies investigating potential adverse effects, including oxidative stress and carcinogenicity.

Main Results:

• Creatine supplementation demonstrates neuroprotective effects in acute liver failure and improves energy supply to the brain.
• Athletes utilize creatine for its ergogenic properties.
• Limited data exists on adverse effects, with some studies suggesting antioxidant benefits, while others propose potential increases in oxidative stress and carcinogenic compound formation.

Conclusions:

• Creatine plays a vital role in cellular energy homeostasis and exhibits therapeutic potential in liver disease and neurological conditions.
• Further research is crucial to comprehensively understand the safety profile of creatine supplementation and mitigate any potential risks.
• Balancing the known benefits with the need for more extensive safety data is essential for informed creatine use.