Role of Carnitine in Human Nutrition

A critical literature review summarizes and discusses information concerning the role of carnitine in the oxidation of long-chain fatty acids and other areas of in vivo metabolism. Dietary and endogenous sources of carnitine are described, as well as its transport and homeostasis. Attention also is given to: potential causes of cellular carnitine deficiency and the consequences of impaired carnitine function; primary congenital carnitine metabolic disorders; the potential carnitine insufficiency of vegetarians; and human studies of the characteristics of a variety of non-congenital carnitine-deficient clinical states.(wz)