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Setting the Stage for Branched-Chain Amino Acids Use in Neurological Pathologies: Does a Single Oral Dose Provide
Ezek Mathew1, Nathan Jones1, McKinley Dews1
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of North Texas Health Science Center, 3500 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA.
Background:
Recent studies have demonstrated that branched-chain amino acids are neuroprotective and neurorestorative. Branched-chain amino acid supplements are now being recommended to be taken before contact sports to reduce concussions. While peaks and troughs in branched-chain amino acids have previously been reported in hospital settings, the metabolism of a single recommended dose of over-the-counter branched-chain amino acids has yet to be elucidated.
Methods:
We analyzed a patented branched-chain amino acid product to assess its metabolism in 10 healthy adults.
Results:
Over the defined time points, measured levels of branched-chain amino acids remained significantly elevated when compared to the physiological baseline. The elevations in measured plasma levels indicate that a single oral dose is a viable intake option for increasing levels of branched-chain amino acids.
Conclusions:
This information can be leveraged to better plan branched-chain amino acid-based treatment doses in order to treat pathologies such as brain injury.
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