L-carnitine Group Research Articles

L-carnitine reverses methotrexate-induced nephrotoxicity in experimental rat model: Insight on SIRT1/PGC-1α/Nrf2/HO-1 axis.

Methotrexate (MTX) is a chemotherapeutic agent used for treating several types of cancer as well as psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis, but its use is limited due to its nephrotoxicity. The purpose of this research work was to observe ameliorative effects of L-carnitine (LC) toward renal toxicity caused by MTX and mechanisms responsible for these effects. Thirty-two male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups (eight rats/group), control group (received saline), MTX group (20 mg/kg/i.p. once), LC group (500 mg/kg/i.p. for 5days), and MTX + LC group (received a single MTX dose 20 mg/kg/i.p. followed by LC 500 mg/kg/i.p. for 5days). Histopathological examinations, lipid oxidation marker, malondialdehyde (MDA), and the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) as well as inflammatory (tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α] and interleukin-6 [IL-6]) and apoptotic markers (Bax, Bcl2, and caspase-3) were used to assess renal toxicity. Moreover, the protein levels of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) and its downstream signaling targets, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in addition to heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were measured. LC significantly protected against MTX-induced nephrotoxicity. It ameliorated MTX-induced renal histopathological changes and diminished MTX-induced renal oxidative stress, renal inflammation, and apoptosis. LC also upregulated the expression of SIRT1 and PGC-1 as well as Nrf2 and HO-1. By controlling the expression of renal SIRT1/PGC-1/Nrf2/HO-1, LC displayed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic activities. Hence, using LC supplements may help prevent negative MTX side effects.

Protective Effect of Acetyl L-Carnitine on Rat Spermatogenesis Defects Induced by Lead Acetate

In this study the influences of the ameliorative effects of Acetyl-L-carnitine, when exposed to lead acetate on functional aspects in spermatogenesis process in the testes of albino male rats, studied, 24 male albino rats weight 178-250 g were randomly distributed into four groups, 6 rats in each, the control group received distilled water orally, Treatment 1 lead acetate group received 10mgkg body weight orally, Treatment 2 acetyl L-carnitine(ALCAR) group received 100mgkg body weight orally, and Treatment 3 lead acetate and acetyl L-carnitine group received 10mgkg body weight and 100mgkg body weight orally respectively. After the end of the experiment the weight of sexual organs were taken, in addition, the total sperm count number, and percentage of dead, live, with abnormal spermatozoa also have been calculated. Results showed that the total sperm count in the lead acetate group was decreased compared with the control and ALCAR groups. The lead acetate with ALCAR showed an increase in total sperm count and live sperm percentage in comparison with control and ALCAR groups. Dead and abnormal sperm percentage increased in the lead acetate group and in lead with ALCAR groups in compared with control and ALCAR grou

Efficacy of anti-sebum moisturizing cream containing 2% l-carnitine and 5% epigallocatechin gallate in seborrhea: A randomized clinical trial.

Seborrhea leads to facial greasiness and unpleasant feeling. People with seborrhea also have trouble with selecting moisturizers. l-Carnitine and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are reported anti-sebum properties. However, neither efficacy comparison nor the combination effect of the two topical anti-sebum agents was studied. Moisturizing cream with these agents is supposed to provide skin with an optimal water-oil balance. To compare the efficacy of moisturizer containing 2% l-carnitine or 5% EGCG alone on sebum controlling, and the synergistic effect of these two agents. Three study creams were formulated by adding three kinds of anti-sebum agents which were 2% l-carnitine, 5% EGCG, and 2% l-carnitine plus 5% EGCG in moisturizing cream base of dimethicone and glycerin. A randomized clinical trial was conducted. Ninety subjects, divided into three groups, applied the cream for 4 weeks. Sebum level, skin capacitance, and transepidermal water loss (TEWL) were evaluated at Weeks 0, 1, 2, and 4. Life qualities and subjective outcomes were assessed before and after treatment. The mean sebum reduction from baseline was statistically significant in all treatment groups (p < 0.01). The median time to oil control was longer in l-carnitine group. The combine group had significantly greater anti-sebum efficacy than l-carnitine group (p = 0.009). All three groups had significant improvement of other objective parameters and subjective outcomes. The anti-sebum moisturizing cream exhibited beneficial effect on the sebum reduction with improve skin hydration in people with seborrhea and made users satisfied. The EGCG group and the combine group show the greater anti-sebum effect than the l-carnitine group.

L-carnitine Modulates Cognitive Impairment Induced by Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide in Rats; Insights to Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Synaptic Plasticity, Liver/brain, and Kidney/brain Axes.

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment in cancer patients is known as "chemobrain". Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide are two chemotherapeutic agents used in combination to treat solid tumors. L-carnitine was reported for its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The goal of the present study was to elucidate the neuroprotective effect of L-carnitine against chemobrain induced by Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide in rats. Rats were divided into five groups: Control group; Doxorubicin (4mg/kg, IV) and Cyclophosphamide (40mg/kg, IV)-treated group; two L-carnitine-treated groups (150 and 300mg/kg, ip) with Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide; and L-carnitine alone-treated group (300mg/kg). Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide induced histopathological changes in rats' hippocampi and prefrontal cortices, as well as reduced memory as evidenced by behavioural testing. L-carnitine treatment showed opposite effects. In addition, chemotherapy treatment enhanced oxidative stress via reducing catalase and glutathione levels, and inducing lipid peroxidation. By contrast, L-carnitine treatment showed powerful antioxidant effects reversing chemotherapy-induced oxidative damage. Moreover, chemotherapy combination induced inflammation via their effect on nuclear factor kappa B(p65), interleukin-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α. However, L-carnitine treatment corrected such inflammatory responses. Furthermore, Doxorubicin and Cyclophosphamide reduced synaptic plasticity via hindering expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, phosphorylated cyclase response element binding protein, synaptophysin, and postsynaptic density protein 95 whereas protein expression of such synaptic plasticity biomarkers was enhanced by L-carnitine treatment. Finally, acetylcholinesterase activity was found to be enhanced by chemotherapy treatment affecting rats' memory while L-carnitine treatment reduced acetylcholinesterase activity. L-carnitine also showed hepatoprotective and renal protective effects suggesting liver/brain and kidney/brain axes as possible mechanisms for its neuroprotective effects.

Protective effect of L‑carnitine against oxidative stress injury in human ovarian granulosa cells.

Granulosa cells (GCs) are important for supporting and nourishing oocytes during follicular development and maturation. Oxidative stress (OS) injury of GCs can lead to decreased responsiveness of follicles to follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), which will accelerate ovarian senescence and adversely affect oocyte and embryo quality. Since L-carnitine has been previously reported to exert strong antioxidant activity, the present study aimed to explore the possible effects of L-carnitine on OS injury and FSH receptor (FSHR) expression in ovarian GCs, results of which may be of significance for GCs protection. In the present study, OS was induced in vitro in KGN cells by treatment with H2O2. KGN cells were cultured and divided into the following four groups: Blank, OS, and 40 and 80 µmol/l L-carnitine pre-treatment groups. In the OS group, cells showed nuclear pyknosis, mitochondria swelled irregularly whilst featuring fractured cristae. In addition, cell viability, ROS levels, superoxide dismutase levels, glutathione levels, malondialdehyde levels, the mitochondrial membrane potential and FSHR expression, as determined by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), 2,7-dichloro-dihydrofluorescein diacetate, spectrophotometry, ELISA, spectrophotometry, JC-1 and western blot analyses, respectively, were all significantly different in the OS group compared with those in the control group. However, malonaldehyde levels, reactive oxygen species levels and the apoptosis rate according to flow cytometry were all significantly increased compared with those in the control. Compared with those in the OS group, the morphology of cells and mitochondria in the L-carnitine pre-treatment groups were improved, whilst cell viability and the expression of FSHR were significantly increased but oxidative stress injury was decreased. The present results suggest that L-carnitine can protect the cells from OS damage induced by H2O2, enhance antioxidant activity whilst suppressing the apoptosis of GCs, in addition to preserving FSHR expression in GCs under OS. Therefore, the present study revealed that the introduction of L-carnitine in clinical medicine or dietary supplement may protect GCs, improve follicular quality and female reproductive function.

L-carnitine attenuates acoustic startle reflex dysfunction in adult male rats exposed to mancozeb

The fungicide mancozeb increases oxygen-free radicals in the central nervous system. As an antioxidant, L-carnitine protects DNA and cell membranes from damage caused by oxygen-free radicals. The present study investigated how L-carnitine affected the acoustic startle response (ASR) in rats exposed to mancozeb. In this experimental study, male Wistar rats were gavaged orally with mancozeb (500, 1000, and 2000mg/kg), L-carnitine (100, 200, and 400mg/kg), or L-carnitine (200mg/kg) + mancozeb (500mg/kg) three times in 1week. In the sham group, saline (0.9%, 10mL/kg) was gavaged at a volume equivalent to that of the drugs. The control group did not receive any treatment. The results showed that locomotor activity and the percentage of prepulse inhibition in the mancozeb groups decreased compared to the sham group while these parameters increased in the L-carnitine group (200mg/kg) compared to sham rats. In conclusion, mancozeb may increase the risk factor for cognitive diseases such as schizophrenia in people exposed to it while pretreatment with L-carnitine can attenuate the toxic effect.

Efekti L-karnitina na smanjenje hepatotoksičnosti statina kod pacova

Objective. The first line of treatment for hyperlipidemia is statins. In this group, atorvastatin is the most popular and effective drug. Hepatic toxicity and myopathy are the two observed adverse effects of statins. The active form of carnitine is L-carnitine, a water-soluble compound found in food, the body, and the majority of dietary supplements. There are many uses for L-carnitine in the human body. It assists in the removal of free radicals from the body and lowers hydrogen peroxide production, both of which may guard against liver side effects brought on by statins. Methods. Eighty rats were randomly divided into four main groups: control, L-carnitine, atorvastatin, and combination (L-carnitine + atorvastatin) groups. These groups were subdivided into three subgroups based on different doses of the drugs. The L-carnitine group was divided into L200, L300, and L400. The atorvastatin group was divided into A10, A15, and A20. The combination group was subdivided into AL10/200, AL15/300, and AL20/400. All groups received their treatments daily for one month. Results. According to our findings, the effects of L-carnitine (200 mg/kg daily) on the increase in AST brought on by atorvastatin are not statistically significant, although they are significant on the increases in ALT, ALP and TSB. L-carnitine still has substantial impacts on ALT, ALP and TSB even at larger doses, while its impacts on AST levels had become significant. Conclusion. Our research highlights the beneficial effects of supplementing with L-carnitine over a four-week period, which effectively mitigates the liver damage caused by atorvastatin.

Effects of L-carnitine on healing of Achilles tendon in rats.

In this experimental study, we aimed to analyze the effects of levocarnitine (L-carnitine) on tendon healing after surgical repair of Achilles tendon rupture in a rat model. The study included 40 Wistar Albino rats divided into four groups: Group 1, neither surgical intervention nor substance applications were performed for the Achilles tendons. In the other groups, the right Achilles tendons were cut using a scalpel and repaired with a modified Kessler-type technique with 3/0 monofilament polydioxanone suture. In Group 2, the rats did not receive any additional treatment, except for surgical repair. In Group 3, the same volume similar to Group 4 of saline solution was administered intraperitoneally for seven days. In Group 4, each rat received 300 mg/kg of L-carnitine intraperitoneally for seven days. At Week 6, all rats were sacrificed. All right Achilles tendons were used for biomechanical tests and histopathological evaluations. Biochemical analysis of the matrix metalloproteinase was also performed using the blood specimens. There were no significant differences among the groups in terms of the histopathological parameters. Although the mean matrix metalloproteinase level was low in the L-carnitine group, it did not reach statistical significance. A significant increase in maximum force, tensile strength, and strength to 2-mm gap was observed in the L-carnitine group. The significant effects of L-carnitine on biomechanical parameters may indicate favorable effects on Achilles tendon healing in rats by reducing matrix metalloproteinase 2 and 9. To improve Achilles tendon healing, further investigation for these markers is needed. Since the effects of L-carnitine on the Achilles tendon cannot be clearly distinguished histopathologically, further studies involving L-carnitine-induced effects are warranted.

Protective effects of L-carnitine on X irradiation-induced uterus injury via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways

Purpose Ionizing radiation causes oxidative stress induced tissue damage as well as a decline in reproduction incidence. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effects of L-carnitine on radiation-induced uterine injury. Materials and methods Thirty Wistar albino rats were classified into five groups. Physiological saline was administered intraperitoneally to the control group. A single dose of 8.3 Gy whole body X-irradiation was applied to the radiation-1 and radiation-2 groups. These groups were sacrificed on the 6th hour and 4th day, respectively, after irradiation. Radiation-1 + L-carnitine and radiation-2 + L-carnitine groups received a daily dose of 200 mg/kg L-carnitine in addition to the same dose of irradiation. L-carnitine was also applied one day before and four days after irradiation. Results L-carnitine therapy partially blocks the depletion of the deep glands and radiation-induced flattening of the glandular epithelium and endometrial surface. Proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were found to be significantly expressed in the uterus tissue of irradiated mice. In the radiation groups, NFκB and PARP-1 expressions in uterine tissue was significantly increased compared to L-carnitine treated and the control groups. It was observed that the oxidative stress index increased in the radiation groups, but decreased in the L-carnitine applied groups. Conclusions Our findings showed that L-carnitine has a positive effect on radiation-induced uterine damage. L-carnitine may be a potential safe radio protective agent during radiotherapy for pelvic cancer provided the tumor is not protected from radiation damage to the same extent as the normal tissue is. However, prospective clinical trial studies are necessary to understand its efficacy.

Studies on improving semen quality and increasing pregnancy chances through the in vitro addition of L-carnitine and coenzyme Q10 to semen in patients with asthenozoospermia

BackgroundAt present, L-carnitine (LC) and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), as used clinically to treat male infertility caused by asthenozoospermia (ASZ) is still mainly administered orally, but some patients with ASZ still show no significant improvement in sperm motility and spouse pregnancy rate. Prodom is a device used to assist reproduction, which is temporarily fitted onto the penis to facilitate conception by helping the wife inject a certain drug into the vagina. This study used Prodom-assisted LC/CoQ10 in the treatment of patients with ASZ and evaluated the effect of this method on sperm motility and clinical pregnancy, with the goal of finding a comfortable, low-cost, effective method.ResultsDuring the trial period, 232 cases completed the trial, while 25 cases did not. During in vitro testing, the progressive sperm motility in the LC group, CoQ10 group, LC combined with CoQ10 group, and the semen blank control group was 24.3 ± 4.6% and 38.1 ± 5.1%, 23.0 ± 4.8% and 36.9 ± 4.4%, 28.4 ± 5.0% and 43.8 ± 5.4%, 19.7 ± 4.4% and 26.0 ± 4.9%, respectively. There were statistically significant differences in progressive sperm motility among the groups (all P values < 0.05). The pregnancy rates of the Prodom-assisted LC treatment group, Prodom-assisted CoQ10 treatment group, Prodom-assisted LC combined with CoQ10 treatment group, and oral LC combined with CoQ10 treatment group in the clinical treatment stage were 38.2, 35.4, 57.1, and 30.3%, respectively; the time to conception was 6.1 ± 1.8, 6.2 ± 1.8, 3.4 ± 0.9, and 7.9 ± 2.0, months respectively; and the treatment costs were $2350 ± 457, $2455 ± 434, $1348 ± 411, and $2684 ± 334, respectively. The differences in pregnancy rate, time to conception, and treatment costs among the groups were statistically significant (all P values < 0.05).ConclusionsThe supplementation of in vitro semen with LC/CoQ10 can improve sperm motility. LC/CoQ10 injected into the spouse’s vagina with the assistance of a Prodom can increase the pregnancy rate, shorten the time to conception, and reduce the cost of treatment in patients with ASZ.Trial registrationChiCTR2000040349 (registry: http://www.chictr.org.cn/).Date of registration: November 28, 2020.

64 Effects of L-Carnitine Dietary Supplementation on the Quality of Buck Semen Collected During non-Breeding Season

Abstract Artificial insemination (AI) has potential impact on goat breeding. Reduced fertility in goats following AI is mostly associated with semen quality, which is influenced by breed, collection methods, freezing procedures, and the male diet. L-carnitine (LC) plays an integral role in sperm metabolism by supplying energy through β-oxidation to enhance sperm motility. L-carnitine is also important for fatty acid metabolism and acts as an antioxidant. Positive impact of dietary supplementation with LC on sperm quality and fertility has been reported in many species; however, no studies have been conducted on goats. The objective was to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of LC on the quality of goat semen collected by electroejaculation during non-breeding season. Six mature Alpine bucks were randomly assigned into two groups, namely control (three bucks were fed a regular diet without LC supplementation), and treatment (three bucks were fed the normal diet plus 0.0022 g/kg of BW, LC). Each feeding trial last for 60 days from January to March (the non-breeding season). Semen was collected from the bucks once/week by electroejaculation and evaluated for its physical characters. Sperm motility, concentrations, viability, membrane integrity, and abnormalities were also examined. Results showed that colors of the samples collected from the two groups were white to yellow and the consistency ranged from watery to creamy. Percentage of live spermatozoa (69.7%) was greater (P≤ 0.05) in LC group than control (50.1%). However, no significant differences (P &amp;gt; 0.05) were observed in semen volume, sperm concentration, motility, abnormalities, and membrane integrity between the two groups. In conclusion, supplementing bucks LC during non-breeding season enhanced sperm viability. Further experiments are in progress to evaluate the effects of LC on reproductive variables and the levels of reproductive hormones such as testosterone, FSH, and LH in the blood of male goats.

Clomiphene citrate (CC) plus L-Carnitine improves clinical pregnancy rate along with glycemic status and lipid profile in clomiphene-resistant polycystic ovary syndrome patients: A triple-blind randomized controlled clinical trial

Despite the high prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), its pathogenesis has not been well understood. This study was designed to evaluate the reproductive and metabolic effects of L-carnitine in clomiphene citrate (CC)-resistant PCOS women. The triple-blind randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted in the infertility clinic of the Imam Hossein hospital and registered with registration number: IRCT20210415050980N1. A total of 148 CC-resistance PCOS women have randomly divided into two groups; group A received 150 mg/day CC from day 5 to day 9 of the ovulation cycle and 3 g oral L-carnitine, and Group B received 150 mg/day oral CC plus placebo. The primary outcome was the clinical pregnancy rate. The secondary outcomes were hormonal and metabolic profile changes. L-carnitine significantly improves ovulation and pregnancy rate (71.4% vs. 28.6%; p < 0.001 and 33% vs. 11%; p < 0.001). The number of stimulated follicles reaching˃17 mm diameter was significantly higher in Group A compared to Group B (2.14 ± 0.64 vs. 0.71 ± 0.7; p < 0.001). Endometrium was significantly thicker in Group A (8.14 ± 1.89 mm vs. 6.43 ± 1.3 mm; p < 0.001). L-carnitine treatment significantly decreased fasting serum glucose and Hb A1c (P > 0.001) and improved lipid profile. L-carnitine treatment may increase pregnancy rate along with improving the glycemic status and lipid profile. However, further studies are recommended to explore the exact mechanisms of L-carnitine role in patients with PCOS. • The number of stimulated follicles reaching˃17 mm diameter was significantly higher in Clomiphene citrate plus L-carnitine group compared to Clomiphene citrate plus placebo Group. • L-carnitine treatment significantly increased endometrium thickness. • L-carnitine treatment significantly decreased fasting serum glucose and Hb A1c as well as improved lipid profile. • L-carnitine significantly improve ovulation rate and pregnancy rate.

The effects of L-carnitine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles on performance, antioxidant parameters, and expression of genes associated with cholesterol metabolism in laying hens

The purpose of this study was to investigate the production performance, antioxidant parameters, egg yolk cholesterol content, and expression of genes related to cholesterol metabolism in laying hens fed L-carnitine (LC) and L-carnitine-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (LC-SLNs). A total of 350 Hy-Line (w-36) laying hens at 50 wk of age (1520.0 ± 0.7 g) were randomly assigned to 35 units (5 replicates and 50 hens in each treatment) with seven dietary treatments as a completely randomized design. The dietary treatments were corn-soybean meal-based diets, including 1) Control (basal diet); 2) Basal diet +50 mg/kg LC (50LC); 3) Basal diet +100 mg/kg LC (100LC); 4) Basal diet +150 mg/kg LC (150LC); 5) Basal diet +50 mg/kg LC-SLNs (50LC-SLNs); 6) Basal diet +100 mg/kg LC-SLNs (100LC-SLNs) and 7) Basal diet +150 mg/kg LC-SLNs (150LC-SLNs). Results showed that the 50LC-SLNs had the least feed conversion ratio (FCR) in all groups (P < 0.05). The dietary supplementation of 100LC-SLNs decreased (P < 0.01) the egg yolk cholesterol concentration from 14.71 to 11.76 mg/g yolk (25%). The 50LC-SLNs group produced the most total antioxidant capacity with a difference of 58.44% compared to the control group (P < 0.01). The greatest amount of total superoxide dismutase was found for 50LC-SLNs (P < 0.05), while the glutathione peroxidase was not affected by the experimental treatments (P > 0.05). Serum malondialdehyde levels were reduced by 50.52% in laying hens fed 50LC-SLNs compared to the control group (P < 0.05). The transcript level of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase was significantly decreased (P < 0.01) in the LC and LC-SLNs groups. The expression of cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase was significantly increased (P < 0.01) in the plain LC (∼83%) and LC-SLNs (∼91%) groups. The inclusion of LC-SLNs in the diet increased (P < 0.05) the villus height and decreased villus width in all three parts of the small intestine. Dietary inclusion of LC was found to reduce egg yolk and serum cholesterol content by improving the production performance and antioxidant status. The LC-SLNs groups were more affected than the plain LC groups, which may be attributed to the increased bioavailability of LC.

L-Carnitine Supports the In Vitro Growth of Buffalo Oocytes.

Simple SummaryThe objective of this study was to examine the effect of L-carnitine on the growth and subsequent nuclear maturation of buffalo growing oocytes in vitro. Oocyte-granulosa cell complexes (OGCs) were collected from early antral follicles of slaughtered buffaloes and cultured in in vitro growth (IVG) medium with the supplementation of different concentrations (0, 1.25, 1.875 or 2.5 mM) of L-carnitine for 6 days. The results showed that L-carnitine increased the diameter of buffalo oocytes in vitro. L-carnitine also enhanced the antrum-like structure formation and prevented the degeneration of buffalo oocytes in culture. Furthermore, L-carnitine-treated oocytes showed a higher rate of nuclear maturation up to the metaphase II (MII) stage and a lower rate of degeneration. In conclusion, L-carnitine enhances the growth, prevents degeneration, promotes the formation of antrum-like structures and supports nuclear maturation of buffalo oocytes in vitro.This study aimed to determine the effect of L-carnitine on the growth and subsequent nuclear maturation of buffalo small growing oocytes (92–108 µm in diameter) in vitro. Oocyte-granulosa cell complexes (OGCs) were dissected from early antral follicles of slaughtered buffaloes and cultured in in vitro growth (IVG) medium with the supplementation of different concentrations (0, 1.25, 1.875 or 2.5 mM) of L-carnitine for 6 days. The results revealed that L-carnitine increased the diameter of buffalo oocytes in vitro. The degeneration rate was significantly (p < 0.05) lower in 2.5 mM of L-carnitine-treated oocytes (10%) than others (55%, 45% and 32.5% in 0, 1.25 and 1.875 mM of L-carnitine-supplemented groups, respectively). The OGCs showed antrum-like structures significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the 2.5 mM of L-carnitine group (74.0%) than the 0- and 1.25-mM groups (34.6% and 38.1%, respectively). Furthermore, in vitro grown oocytes were placed in in vitro maturation (IVM) medium for 24 h to examine meiotic competence of in vitro grown oocytes with L-carnitine. The L-carnitine (1.875 and 2.5 mM) treated oocytes showed a higher rate of nuclear maturation up to the metaphase II (MII) stage and a lower rate of degeneration. In conclusion, L-carnitine enhances the growth, prevents degeneration, promotes the formation of antrum-like structures and supports nuclear maturation of buffalo oocytes in vitro.

The effect of levocarnitine supplementation on dialysis-related hypotension: A systematic review, meta-analysis, and trial sequential analysis.

Dialysis patients have been shown to have low serum carnitine due to poor nutrition, deprivation of endogenous synthesis from kidneys, and removal by hemodialysis. Carnitine deficiency leads to impaired cardiac function and dialysis-related hypotension which are associated with increased mortality. Supplementing with levocarnitine among hemodialysis patients may diminish incidence of intradialytic hypotension. Data on this topic, however, lacks consensus. We conducted electronic searches in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from January 1960 to 19th November 2021 to identify randomized controlled studies (RCTs), which examined the effects of oral or intravenous levocarnitine (L-carnitine) on dialysis-related hypotension among hemodialysis patients. The secondary outcome was muscle cramps. Study results were pooled and analyzed utilizing the random-effects model. Trial sequential analysis (TSA) was performed to assess the strength of current evidence. Eight trials with 224 participants were included in our meta-analysis. Compared to control group, L-carnitine reduced the incidence of dialysis-related hypotension among hemodialysis patients (pooled OR = 0.26, 95% CI [0.10-0.72], p = 0.01, I2 = 76.0%). TSA demonstrated that the evidence was sufficient to conclude the finding. Five studies with 147 participants showed a reduction in the incidence of muscle cramps with L-carnitine group (pooled OR = 0.22, 95% CI [0.06-0.81], p = 0.02, I2 = 74.7%). However, TSA suggested that further high-quality studies were required. Subgroup analysis on the route of supplementation revealed that only oral but not intravenous L-carnitine significantly reduced dialysis-related hypotension. Regarding dose and duration of L-carnitine supplementation, the dose > 4,200 mg/week and duration of at least 12 weeks appeared to prevent dialysis-related hypotension. Supplementing oral L-carnitine for at least three months above 4,200 mg/week helps prevent dialysis-related hypotension. L-carnitine supplementation may ameliorate muscle cramps. Further well-powered studies are required to conclude this benefit.

L-Carnitine Mitigates Trazadone Induced Rat Cardiotoxicity Mediated via Modulation of Autophagy and Oxidative Stress

Trazodone (TRZ) is an antidepressant drug which widely used to treat insomnia, but it has a cardiotoxic effect which considered one of the TRZ limitations. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective role of l-carnitine in rats against TRZ-induced cardiotoxicity, as well as to look into the molecular mechanisms underlying its cardioprotective effects via autophagy-mediated cell death and oxidative stress. Male albino rats were randomized into four experimental groups (n = 8): normal control, TRZ group (TRZ, 20 mg/kg/day), l-carnitine group (LC, 200 mg/kg/day), and Co-treated group (l-carnitine and TRZ). All treatments were administered via oral gavage for 4 weeks. Cardiac enzymes (AST & CK-MB) and serum cardiac troponin T(cTnI) were assessed. Oxidative stress biomarkers in heart tissue (malondialdehyde; MDA, total thiol, and catalase activity) were measured. Autophagy related-genes (ATG-5 and Beclin-1), P62, and TNF-α were quantified. AST and CK-MB and cTnI significantly (p < 0.001) were increased with enhanced autophagy as well as severe histopathological changes which were manifested as scattered chronic inflammatory cells with focal fragmentation of myocardial fibers and loss of nuclei in TRZ-treated group. However, daily administration of l-carnitine (200 mg/kg) for 28 days completely reversed TRZ-induced the increased cardiac enzymes, autophagy, and myocardial inflammatory processes to the normal values. TRZ administration might have the potential to cause cardiotoxic effects that can be treated with l-carnitine administration.

The effects of l-Carnitine supplementation on inflammatory markers, clinical status, and 28 days mortality in critically ill patients: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Critical ill patients experience catabolic stress, which results in a systemic inflammatory response. The inflammatory response is associated with increased complications, including infection, multi-organ dysfunction, increased length of ICU stays, and mortality. l-Carnitine supplementation may play an important role in these patients by regulating inflammatory cell function. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of l-Carnitine supplementation on clinical status, inflammatory markers, and mortality rate in critically ill patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was performed on critically ill patients. Subjects were randomly assigned into placebo (n=27) and l-Carnitine (n=27) groups. l-Carnitine (3000mg/day) was administered via nasogastric tube for the intervention group for 7 days, while the other group received a placebo for the same duration. Serum levels of inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured. Nutritional status and the acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) score, sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, and 28-day mortality were also recorded. Fifty-one critically ill patients completed the study. l-Carnitine supplementation significantly reduced the levels of CRP (mean change±SE:-34.9±6.5) and IL-6 (mean change±SE:-10.64±2.16) compared to the baseline, which is both statistically significant compared with the control group (p<0.05). The SOFA and APACHE scores were significantly reduced in the l-Carnitine group compared with the placebo group (p=0.02 and p<0.001, respectively). l-Carnitine supplementation showed beneficial effects on inflammatory and clinical outcomes of critically ill patients. Trial registration: IRCT, Registered 30 May 2018, https://www.irct.ir/trial/30748.

Dietary L-Carnitine Affects Leukocyte Count and Function in Dairy Cows Around Parturition.

In early lactation, an energy deficit leading to a negative energy balance (NEB) is associated with increased susceptibility to disease and has been shown to be an important factor during transition in dairy cows. L-carnitine as a key factor in the mitochondrial transport of fatty acids and subsequently for β-oxidation and energy release is known to modulate mitochondrial biogenesis and thus influence metabolism and immune system. In the current study, we characterized hematological changes around parturition and investigated the potential effects of dietary L-carnitine supplementation on immune cell functions. For this approach, dairy cows were assigned either to a control (CON, n = 30) or an L-carnitine group [CAR, n = 29, 25 g rumen-protected L-carnitine per cow and day (d)]. Blood samples were taken from d 42 ante partum (ap) until d 110 post-partum (pp), with special focus and frequent sampling from 0.5 to72 h post-calving to clarify the impact of L-carnitine supplementation on leukocyte count, formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in polymorphonuclear cells (PMN) and peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMC) and their phagocytosis activity. Blood cortisol concentration and the capacity of PBMC proliferation was also investigated. All populations of leukocytes were changed during the peripartal period, especially granulocytes showed a characteristic increase up to 4 h pp. L-carnitine supplementation resulted in increased levels of eosinophils which was particularly pronounced one day before to 4 h pp, indicating a possible enhanced support for tissue repair and recovery. Non-supplemented cows showed a higher phagocytic activity in PBMC as well as a higher phagocytic capacity of PMN during the most demanding period around parturition, which may relate to a decrease in plasma levels of non-esterified fatty acids reported previously. L-carnitine, on the other hand, led to an increased efficiency to form ROS in stimulated PMN. Finally, a short period around calving proved to be a sensitive period in which L-carnitine administration was effective.

Randomized Controlled Trial of Combined L-Carnitine Supplementation and Moderate-Intensity Exercises on Cardiovascular Markers and Bone Health Status in Overweight and Obese Individuals

This article aimed to determine effects of 12 weeks of combined L-carnitine supplementation and moderate-intensity exercise on cardiovascular markers and bone health status in overweight and obese individuals. Sixty-eight participants (mean age: 29.03 ± 6.02 years old) were divided into control (C), L-carnitine supplement (S), exercise (E), combined L-carnitine and exercise (SE) groups. Participants in S and SE groups consumed 1 tablet of 1000mg L-carnitine daily. Participants in E and SE groups performed 30 minutes of brisk walking (50% HRmax), and continued with 10 to 20 minutes of Tabata exercise per session, 3 times per week. After 12 weeks of intervention, there were significant reduction in body weight (p&lt; 0.05), body mass index (p&lt; 0.05), fat percentage (p&lt; 0.05), fat mass (p&lt; 0.05), and increases fat free mass (p&lt; 0.01) in S, E and SE groups. Regarding waist to hip ratio, blood glucose and total cholesterol, only E and SE groups showed improvements (p&lt;0.05) and the greatest reduction was observed in SE group. No significant changes in insulin resistance in any groups. Additionally, S, E and SE groups also showed enhancement in both dominant and non-dominant radial and tibial speed of sound (p&lt; 0.05) within and between the groups.

Effect of L-carnitine on regeneration in experimental partial hepatectomy model in rats.

In cases of major liver resections or ischemic damage made by the pringle maneuver, agents that increase regeneration or manage ischemic reperfusion injury have become a fascinating topic for researchers. The aim of this study is to see how systemic L-carnitine, an antioxidant with thorough research behind it, affects liver regeneration after major hepatectomy in a rat experimental hepatectomy (two-thirds liver resection) model. The liver regeneration was evaluated in this study using a rat hepatectomy model developed in the General Surgery Clinic of Health Sciences University, Umraniye Education and Research Hospital's Laboratory. In the experiment, 15 male and 15 female Wistar Albino rats weighing between 250 and 300 g were used in a way that the genders were mixed. In each group, three groups were formed, including male and female rats randomly selected and ten rats. Gcontrol: 70% hepatic resection + intraperitoneal 0.9% saline, GSham: After laparotomy, the abdomen was closed again without any procedure, Gcarnitine: 70% hepatic resection + intraperitoneal 100 mg/kg L Carnitine was applied. It was applied systemically to GSham and Gcarnitine groups and the same procedure was applied to rats for 4 days at the same time without any restrictions. On the 5th day, the abdomen was entered with relaparotomy after sacrification and liver regeneration was evaluated macroscopically and recorded in the forms developed for each subject. Later, liver tissue was resected and microscopically recorded by measuring mitotic index, binuclear hepatocyte, gall duct proliferation, dilation in central veins, and cell proliferation in the parenchyma. The results obtained were evaluated statistically. According to the results, the L-carnitine group had a statistically significant increase in overall regeneration scoring after hepatectomy in the histopathological assessment as compared to the control group. It is thought that L-carnitine, whose many positive effects have been shown experimentally and clinically, has a positive effect on liver regeneration and immunohistochemical researches is required to elucidate this pathway.