[The biological role of carnosine in excitable tissues]

The authors summarize the data about characters of histidine-containing dipeptides (HCD) carnosine and homocarnosine in excitable tissues. The value of their antiradical, pH-buffer and metal-chelating characters is presented. The authors analyze data on participation of some cell membrane receptors in biological effects of HCD. These results were used earlier as the evidence of mediator function of carnosine in centre nerve system, though later it was not supported experimentally. It is considered now that the biological role of HCD in tissue is connected with the neutralization of superfluous protons, metal ions of changeable valence and free radical compounds, so called general buffer action. The result of this action is the normalization of cell metabolism and the protection of membrane of excitable cells against negative environmental influences.