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Carnosine: its properties, functions and potential therapeutic applications
P J Quinn1, A A Boldyrev, V E Formazuyk
1Biochemistry Department, King's College London, U.K.
Molecular Aspects of Medicine
|January 1, 1992
Summary
Carnosine and related dipeptides are histidine-containing compounds with antioxidant properties, potentially protecting cell membranes. While many therapeutic claims require further research, some applications show promise in wound healing and cataract treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Carnosine and anserine are naturally occurring histidine-containing dipeptides found abundantly in muscle tissue.
- These compounds are thought to function as cytosolic buffering agents and possess significant antioxidant properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the known biological roles and potential therapeutic applications of carnosine and related histidine-containing dipeptides.
- To critically evaluate the evidence supporting various claimed therapeutic effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating the properties and effects of carnosine and related dipeptides.
- Analysis of experimental and clinical data regarding antioxidant activity, membrane protection, and therapeutic claims.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated antioxidant properties, protecting model membrane systems from peroxidation, acting as water-soluble antioxidants.
- Identified potential roles in neurotransmission, enzyme modulation, and heavy metal chelation.
- Highlighted promising therapeutic applications in canine senile cataract and acceleration of skin wound/burn healing, despite many claims lacking rigorous clinical evaluation.
Conclusions:
- Histidine-containing dipeptides exhibit potent antioxidant and membrane-protective effects.
- Many therapeutic claims require further rigorous scientific and clinical investigation.
- Specific applications, such as in wound healing and certain eye conditions, show considerable therapeutic potential.