Carnitine: Benefits, Deficiency, and Essential Functions

Carnitine: An Essential Nutrient

Carnitine is a nutrient synthesized in the liver, kidneys, and brain from two essential amino acids: lysine and methionine. Carnitine is responsible for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria, cellular organelles responsible for energy production.

Some individuals need carnitine supplements to maintain normal metabolism, which indicates that carnitine should be considered an essential nutrient.

Carnitine Deficiency

Carnitine deficiency is classified into two major groups: systemic deficiency (rare) and myopathic (more common). The systemic form affects the whole body, while the myopathic form affects only muscle tissue.

Causes of Carnitine Deficiency

Known causes of carnitine deficiency include:

• Deficiency of lysine and/or methionine (amino acid precursors of carnitine)
• Iron deficiency
• Deficiency of vitamin C, B3, and B6 (other precursor factors)
• Genetic fault in the synthesis of carnitine
• Intestinal malabsorption
• Liver or kidney problems affecting synthesis
• Defects in the transport of carnitine
• Enhanced requirement for carnitine
• A diet too rich in fat
• Stress
• Consumption of certain drugs (anticonvulsants such as valproic acid)
• Certain diseases

Functions of the Cell Membrane

The cell membrane serves several functions:

1. Defines and protects the cells.
2. Acts as a selectively permeable barrier, preventing free exchange of materials while providing a means for communication.
3. Allows the passage or transport of solutes, regulating the exchange of substances between the interior and exterior of the cell down a concentration gradient.
4. Contains chemical receptors that combine with specific molecules, allowing the membrane to receive signals and respond specifically (e.g., inhibiting or stimulating domestic activities such as cell division, glycogen development, cell movement, and calcium release).