Carnosine
Beta-Alanyl-L-Histidine · L-Carnosine · β-Ala-His
A naturally occurring dipeptide found in high concentrations in muscle and brain tissue, widely researched for its anti-glycation, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties.
Half-Life
~2–3 hours (oral, as free dipeptide); rapidly hydrolyzed by serum carnosinase to beta-alanine and histidine
MW
226.23 Da
Amino Acids
2 AA
Evidence
Moderate Evidence
Regulatory Status
GRAS status (FDA) as a food ingredient. Available as a dietary supplement. Not FDA-approved as a drug.
In Plain English
Think of carnosine as a multi-tasking protective compound your muscles and brain make naturally. It acts as a sponge for acid during hard exercise, a shield against the "rusting" of your proteins over time (called glycation), and a garbage collector for cellular damage. Levels drop with age, which is why older muscles tire faster and why proteins in the lens of the eye cloud over into cataracts.
Overview
Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is a dipeptide synthesized naturally in the body from beta-alanine and histidine. It is found in the highest concentrations in skeletal muscle (~20 mmol/kg dry weight) and brain tissue. Carnosine levels naturally decline with age and are notably lower in vegetarians. Research has explored its roles in buffering exercise-induced acidity, protecting proteins and DNA from glycation and oxidative damage, and supporting neurological health. It is FDA-recognized as GRAS (generally recognized as safe) in food applications.
Common Formats
- Oral capsules/powder
- Eye drops (N-acetylcarnosine for cataracts)
- Topical creams
Storage Notes
Stable at room temperature in sealed containers. Protect from humidity and light. Aqueous solutions degrade; use promptly or refrigerate.
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Related Compounds
GHK-Cu
A naturally occurring copper complex peptide with potent wound healing, anti-aging, and regenerative properties studied extensively for skin and tissue applications.
GHK (Glycine-Histidine-Lysine)
The copper-free parent tripeptide of GHK-Cu, studied independently for wound healing, gene expression modulation, and anti-inflammatory activity without requiring copper chelation.
Epitalon
A synthetic tetrapeptide based on Epithalamin with telomerase activation and antioxidant properties showing remarkable longevity effects in multiple animal species.
Educational Disclaimer: All information on this page is for educational and research purposes only. This does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.