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. 2023 Dec;27(4):48-54.
doi: 10.20463/pan.2023.0037. Epub 2023 Dec 31.

The potential role of creatine supplementation in neurodegenerative diseases

Hyukki Chang  1 , Yea-Hyun Leem  2
Affiliations

The potential role of creatine supplementation in neurodegenerative diseases

Hyukki Chang et al. Phys Act Nutr. 2023 Dec.

Abstract

Purpose: The maintenance of energy balance in the body, especially in energy-demanding tissues like the muscles and the central nervous system, depends on creatine (Cr). In addition to improving muscle function, Cr is necessary for the bioenergetics of the central nervous system because it replenishes adenosine triphosphate without needing oxygen. Furthermore, Cr possesses anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-excitotoxic properties. Clinical research on neurodegenerative illnesses has shown that Cr supplementation results in less effective outcomes. With a brief update on the possible role of Cr in human, animal, and in vitro experiments, this review seeks to offer insights into the ideal dosage regimen.

Methods: Using specified search phrases, such as "creatine and neurological disorder," "creatine supplementation and neurodegenerative disorders," and "creatine and brain," we searched articles in the PubMed database and Google Scholar. We investigated the association between creatine supplementation and neurodegenerative illnesses by examining references.

Results: The neuroprotective effects of Cr were observed in in vitro and animal models of certain neurodegenerative diseases, while clinical trials failed to reproduce favorable outcomes.

Conclusion: Determining the optimal creatinine regime for increasing brain creatinine levels is essential for maintaining brain health and treating neurodegeneration.

Keywords: brain; creatine; energetics; energy homeostasis; mitochondria; neurodegenerative disease.

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