The amino acid L-carnitine is well known for its key role in the burning of fats. Specifically, L-carnitine transports fatty acids to the innermost section of the mitochondria (the cellular powerplants for energy) where they are used to create adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of the body. Studies have shown that carnitine deficiency lowers ATP levels in various tissues. Carnitine deficiency also increases the susceptibility to fatigue, and decreases the rate of recovery following strenuous physical activity.
Acetyl L-Carnitine (ACL) is the acetyl ester of the amino acid L-carnitine, which transports fats into the mitochondria. In the mitochondria these fats are converted to an energy source. It is a nutrient and naturally occurring metabolite that is involved in lipid, carbohydrate and protein, metabolism. ALC is naturally present in the human body. The heart, brain, skeletal muscles, and testicles all contain considerable levels of ALC that becomes dramatically reduced as we age.
The esterified form is particularly well absorbed. As a matter of fact, when radioactively labeled ALC is administered, it is readily taken up in the cells. The distribution inside the cells was found to be 60% free L-carnitine, which was to be expected, and 40% ALC, which underscores the importance of this unique substance in the body.
Though closely related to L-carnitine, ALC surpasses the metabolic potency of carnitine. ALC is a source of precious acetyl groups that facilitate energetic pathways and which carnitine cannot supply. Acetyl groups from ALC can be combined with coenzyme A (the metabolized form of the vitamin pantothenic acid) to create Acetyl-Coenzyme A (A-CoA). It is the A-CoA acting within the Krebs cycle that helps to generate ATP. The acetyl groups of ALC, once incorporated into A-CoA, can be used interchangeably in a variety of metabolic pathways. When energy charge is low, A-CoA stores are being depleted, and ALC can be drawn upon to replenish A-CoA. When the cell’s energy charge is high, carnitine can be converted back to ALC, thereby conserving the acetyl until it is needed for energy generation or for the other metabolic purposes.
The bottom line is that ALC can improve energy and endurance in physical performance. ALC represents a substance which is a high energy storage compound. Research has shown that ALC can increase the amount of ATP produced in the body for energy. Furthermore, a Russian study in 1993 demonstrated that ALC administration for 10 days statistically and significantly increased maximum running speed and endurance.
In addition, ALC has other valuable contributions to make to human health and fitness. Research has demonstrated that ALC is capable of reducing cortisol levels after administration. This is important since cortisol is a catabolic hormone that can increase the breakdown of muscle tissue, which is certainly an important consideration for bodybuilders and other athletes. Other research has shown that besides reducing cortisol levels, ALC can reduce prolonged intracellular lactic acidosis, secondary tissue degeneration, and neuronal cell death.
Recent research has elevated ALC to one of the premier anti-aging compounds, especially in relation to brain and nervous system deterioration. ALC not only increases the release and synthesis of acetylcholine it now appears that it has neuroprotective and neuroenhancing properties as well. ALC can prevent dopaminergic neuron death by the neurotoxin MPTP which causes symptoms similar to Parkinsons disease. It has also been established that the density of NMDA receptors declines with age along with a decreased amount of NGF (Nerve Growth Factor). Treatment with ALC restores the NMDA receptor numbers and enhances the effects of NGF. Thus, both animal and human research has demonstrated that ALC has improved age-related memory impairment in elderly subjects.
The scientists at MRM were the first to develop a liquid Acetyl L-Carntine supplement and it continues to be the only one of its kind on the market. This unique product will help individuals achieve their dietary goals.