N-Acetyl Carnosine (NAC) is a naturally occurring compound chemically related to the dipeptide carnosine. The NAC molecular structure is identical to carnosine with the exception that it carries an additional acetyl group. The acetylation makes NAC more resistant to degradation by carnosinase, an enzyme that breaks down carnosine to its constituent amino acids, beta-alanine and histidine.
Carnosine and metabolic derivatives of carnosine, including NAC, are found in a variety of tissues but particularly muscle tissue. These compounds have varying degrees of activity as free radical scavengers.It has been suggested that NAC is particularly active against lipid peroxidation in the different parts of the lens in the eye. It is an ingredient in eye drops that are marketed as a dietary supplement (not a drug) and have been promoted for the prevention and treatment of cataracts. There is scant evidence on its safety, and no convincing evidence that the compound has any effect on ocular health.
Most of the clinical research on NAC has been conducted by Mark Babizhayev of the US-based company Innovative Vision Products (IVP), which markets NAC treatments.
During early experiments performed at the Moscow Helmholtz Research Institute for Eye Diseases, it was shown that NAC (1% concentration), was able to pass from the cornea to the aqueous humour after about 15 to 30 minutes. In a 2004 trial of 90 canine eyes with cataracts, NAC was reported to have performed better than placebo in positively affecting lens clarity. An early human study NAC reported that NAC was effective in improving vision in cataract patients and reduced the appearance of cataract.
The Babizhayev group later published a placebo-controlled clinical trial of NAC in 76 human eyes with mild to advanced cataracts and reported similar positive results for NAC. However, a 2007 scientific review of the current literature discussed the limitations of the clinical trial, noting that the study had low statistical power, a high dropout rate and “insufficient baseline measurement to compare the effect of NAC”, concluding that “a separate larger trial is needed to justify the benefit of long-term NAC therapy”.
Babizhayev and colleagues published a further human clinical trial in 2009. They reported positive results for NAC as well as arguing “only certain formulas designed by IVP… are efficacious in the prevention and treatment of senile cataract for long-term use.”
N-acetyl carnosine has been studied for its potential to support lens and retinal health. Research shows that N-acetyl carnosine may help maintain the clarity of the lens (essential for clear vision) and protect fragile retinal cells from damage. These effects make N-acetyl carnosine a valuable compound for promoting overall eye health and protecting visual function.
While N-acetyl carnosine shows promise in supporting eye health, it’s important to note that further research is needed to fully understand its long-term effects and potential interactions with other medications. As with any supplement or treatment, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using N-acetyl carnosine, especially if you have eye conditions or are taking other medications.
Additionally, when considering supplementing with N-acetyl carnosine, it is important to choose a reputable, high-quality product to ensure purity and effectiveness. There are eye drops on the market that contain N-acetyl carnosine, and for best results it is important to follow the recommended dosage and instructions for use.
In conclusion, N-acetyl carnosine is a promising compound with great potential in supporting eye health, particularly in the prevention and management of age-related eye diseases. Its antioxidant properties and ability to protect the eyes from oxidative stress make it a valuable tool for protecting visual function and maintaining overall eye health. As research in this area continues to evolve, N-acetyl carnosine may become a key factor in promoting healthy aging and maintaining clear, vibrant vision.
Post time: Apr-20-2024
