[The pharmacological activity of carnosine]

The properties of the histidine-containing dipeptide carnosine (beta-alanyl-L-histidine) and its possible biological role are considered. The agent is discussed in terms of its antioxidative and immunomodulating effects on the body. A history of its discovery and investigations of the therapeutical benefits are outlined. The data given indicate that there are great perspectives in expensively using carnosine as a drug.