L-carnitine and its effects on immune response and lipid metabolism
Author Information
Author(s): Giuseppe Famularo, Sonia Tzantzoglou, Gino Santini, Vito Trinchieri, Sonia Moretti, Aleardo Koverech, Claudio De Simone
Primary Institution: University of L'Aquila
Hypothesis
L-carnitine supplementation could ameliorate both the dysregulated immune response and the abnormal lipid metabolism in several conditions.
Conclusion
L-carnitine treatment resulted in a significant reduction of serum cholesterol and triglycerides while enhancing the immune response in patients with cardiovascular diseases.
Supporting Evidence
- L-carnitine treatment led to a significant reduction in serum cholesterol and triglycerides.
- Patients showed an increase in delayed hypersensitivity response to common recall antigens after L-carnitine treatment.
- The addition of L-carnitine reversed the immunotoxic effects of Intralipid in vitro.
- Immunosuppressive activity was reduced by L-carnitine in patients treated with Intralipid.
Takeaway
L-carnitine can help lower bad fats in the blood and make the immune system work better, especially in older people with heart problems.
Methodology
The study involved in vitro and ex vivo experiments with peripheral blood mononuclear cells and a clinical trial with hospitalized patients.
Limitations
The study did not explore the long-term effects of L-carnitine supplementation.
Participant Demographics
23 hospitalized patients, 15 males and 8 females, mean age 75.5 years, with cardiovascular diseases.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
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