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Carnitine plasma concentrations in 353 metabolically healthy children
E Schmidt-Sommerfeld1, D Werner, D Penn
1Universitäts-Kinderklinik, Giessen, Federal Republic of Germany.
European Journal of Pediatrics
|May 1, 1988
Summary
Carnitine levels in children increase with age, with initial elevations at birth due to fatty acid oxidation. Adult males show higher carnitine concentrations than females, suggesting hormonal influence.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatrics
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Carnitine is essential for fatty acid metabolism.
- Understanding carnitine's physiological changes is crucial for assessing metabolic health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate carnitine plasma concentrations in healthy children and adults.
- To analyze age- and sex-related variations in carnitine levels.
- To explore potential correlations with metabolic processes and hormonal influences.
Main Methods:
- Enzymatic radioisotopic method used for plasma carnitine determination.
- Study population: 353 metabolically healthy children and 41 adults.
- Analysis of total, free, and acylcarnitine concentrations.
Main Results:
- Positive correlation between carnitine concentrations and age in children.
- Elevated free and acylcarnitine on day 1 of life, decreasing thereafter.
- Adult males exhibited higher plasma carnitine than adult females; adolescent females had higher levels than adult females.
Conclusions:
- Carnitine plasma concentrations exhibit distinct developmental trajectories in children.
- Sex differences emerge in adulthood, with potential regulation by sex hormones.
- Findings provide reference values for carnitine in pediatric and adult populations.