The use of exogenous carnitine in farm animals
1994
Janssens, G.P.J. | Wilde, R.O. de (Vakgroup Diervoeding, Dierlijke Genetica, Veeuitbating en Ethologie, Merelbeke (Belgium))
A critical revue is given about the use of carnitine supplementation in animals for zootechnical purpose. The main function of carnitine is the transport of long chain fatty acids through the inner mitochondrial membrane for energy production. Only the L-isomere is endogenously synthetized in the body of vertebrates. The d-form can inhibit L-carnitine and should not be administred. The major sources of carnitine are of animal origin, like meat. The use of carnitine has been proposed for a range of applications in very different domains like muscle strength, production and reproduction and diseases of heart, liver, kidney and other organs. Even neurological problems are claimed to be effected by carnitine. A synthesis of the biochemical and physiological aspects of L-carnitine is done. New applications of L-carnitine supplementation in animals have been suggested.
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