Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine)

Overview

Carnosine (β-alanyl-L-histidine) is a naturally occurring dipeptide with potent antioxidant and anti-glycation properties, making it a valuable ingredient in anti-aging skincare products.

Mechanism of Action

Carnosine's benefits stem from its ability to:

• Scavenge ROS and RCS: It neutralizes reactive oxygen and carbonyl species, protecting skin cells from oxidative stress.
• Prevent Protein Glycation: It inhibits the damaging process of glycation in the extracellular matrix (ECM), preserving the skin's structure and function.
• React with Aldehydes: It binds to low-molecular-weight aldehydes, preventing their harmful effects on skin proteins.
• Prevent Cross-linking: It inhibits the cross-linking of macromolecules like collagen and DNA, maintaining skin firmness and elasticity.
• Chelate Heavy Metals: It acts as a chelating agent, removing harmful heavy metal ions from the skin.
• Boost Regeneration: It supports the skin's natural regenerative processes, contributing to wound healing.

Applications

Carnosine's versatility makes it suitable for a range of skincare applications, including anti-aging creams, serums, and wound-healing ointments (a use dating back to the 1940s).

Specifications

• Sequence: β-alanyl-L-histidine
• Molecular Formula: C₉H₁₄N₄O₃
• Molecular Weight: 226.23 g/mol
• CAS #: 305-84-0
• EINECS #: 206-169-9
• FDA UNII: 8HO6PVN24W

Functions

• Anti-aging
• Antiglycation
• Antioxidant
• Skin conditioning