A major cause of aging is the deterioration of the energy-producing components of the cell, which results in reduced cellular metabolic activity, the accumulation of cellular debris, and eventual death of the cell.1-7

L-carnitine helps to maintain cellular energy metabolism by assisting in the transport of fat through the cell membrane and into the mitochondria within the cell, where these fats are oxidized to produce the cellular energy ATP.8-13

Acetyl-L-carnitine arginate is a patented form of carnitine that stimulates the growth of neurites in the brain. Studies show that acetyl-L-carnitine arginate stimulates the growth of neurites by 19.5%, which is almost four times better than acetyl-L-carnitine.21

The acetylated form of L-carnitine (acetyl-L-carnitine) facilitates the release and synthesis of acetylcholine by donating its acetyl group to the production of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter.22 Acetyl-L-carnitine also enhances the release of dopamine from neurons and helps it bind to dopamine receptors.23,24

Acetyl-L-carnitine is more effective than L-carnitine in carrying fatty acids across the membrane into the cell where they are burned as energy. With the discovery of acetyl-L-carnitine arginate, the benefits of acetyl-L-carnitine can now be greatly augmented.

Acetyl-L-carnitine arginate is a patented form of acetyl-L-carnitine. This patented form of carnitine seems to help protect the brain cells from neurotoxins.57,60 Since 1995, Life Extension members have been supplementing with acetyl-L-carnitine and deriving the many benefits this form of carnitine has shown in published scientific studies. With the discovery of acetyl-L-carnitine arginate, the benefits of acetyl-L-carnitine can be greatly augmented. For more information, see this product in the Brain Health section.

For some people, L-carnitine, especially acetyl-L-carnitine, may have a stimulating effect. Therefore, it may be unwise to take it in the evening.

Neurites, Brain, Mitochondria, Energy, Amino Acid