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Review
. 2023 Mar 1;39(2):125-128.
doi: 10.1097/MOG.0000000000000906. Epub 2023 Jan 5.

Carnitine derivatives beyond fatigue: an update

Michele Malaguarnera  1 , Vito Emanuele Catania  2 , Mariano Malaguarnera  3
Affiliations
Review

Carnitine derivatives beyond fatigue: an update

Michele Malaguarnera et al. Curr Opin Gastroenterol. .

Abstract

Purpose of review: Carnitine is an essential micronutrient that transfer long-chain fatty acids from the cytoplasm into the mitochondrial matrix for the β-oxidation. Carnitine is also needed for the mitochondrial efflux of acyl groups in the cases wherein substrate oxidation exceeds energy demands.

Recent findings: Carnitine deficiency can affect the oxidation of free fatty acids in the mitochondria resulting in the aggregation of lipids in the cytoplasm instead of entering the citric acid cycle. The aggregation leads a lack of energy, acetyl coenzyme A accumulation in the mitochondria and cytotoxic production.

Summary: Carnitine and its derivatives show great clinical therapeutic effect without significant side effects.

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Conflict of interest statement

There are no conflicts of interest.

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