nounIntermediate
Definition
Dipeptide (β-alanine + L-histidine) highly concentrated in skeletal muscle and brain; functions as an intracellular pH buffer, antioxidant, metal chelator, and anti-glycation agent.
Detailed Explanation
Carnosine was discovered in 1900 and is one of the most abundant dipeptides in human tissue, reaching concentrations of 20–30 mM in type II (fast-twitch) muscle fibers. Its imidazole ring from histidine gives it excellent buffering capacity near physiological pH, helping muscles resist acidification during high-intensity exercise. Carnosine also chelates zinc and copper ions, scavenges reactive oxygen species, and prevents protein cross-linking by advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Supplementation with β-alanine (the rate-limiting precursor) increases muscle carnosine levels and improves high-intensity exercise performance.
Key Facts
- Carnosine was discovered in 1900 and is one of the most abundant dipeptides in human tissue, reaching concentrations of 20–30 mM in type II (fast-twitch) muscle fibers
- Its imidazole ring from histidine gives it excellent buffering capacity near physiological pH, helping muscles resist acidification during high-intensity exercise
- Carnosine also chelates zinc and copper ions, scavenges reactive oxygen species, and prevents protein cross-linking by advanced glycation end-products (AGEs)
- Supplementation with β-alanine (the rate-limiting precursor) increases muscle carnosine levels and improves high-intensity exercise performance
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