L-Carnitine is an amino acid derivative essential for transporting long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane, a structural requirement since these fatty acids cannot cross the membrane unassisted. This positions L-carnitine as a transport molecule rather than a signaling peptide, mechanistically distinct from the receptor-based and gene-regulatory compounds elsewhere in our catalog.
The mechanism operates through a three-enzyme shuttle system. Carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT-1), located on the outer mitochondrial membrane, attaches L-carnitine to long-chain fatty acyl-CoA to form acylcarnitine. Carnitine-acylcarnitine translocase (CACT) then transports this acylcarnitine across the inner mitochondrial membrane. Once inside the mitochondrial matrix, carnitine palmitoyltransferase II (CPT-2) converts the acylcarnitine back into fatty acyl-CoA and free carnitine, releasing the fatty acid for β-oxidation while the regenerated carnitine returns to the cytosol via CACT for another transport cycle. CPT-1 is the rate-limiting step in this pathway and is itself regulated by malonyl-CoA, linking fatty acid oxidation reciprocally to fatty acid synthesis. L-carnitine is studied in research models examining mitochondrial fatty acid metabolism, hepatic lipid handling, and metabolic flexibility.
Product Specifications
Purity: >99%, verified via HPLC
Form: Lyophilized powder
Vial Size: Multi-dose vial (supports up to 3ml reconstitution)
Reconstitution & Storage
Intended Use: For laboratory research purposes only. Reconstitution with Bacteriostatic Water (BAC water) is required before use.
Storage: Store lyophilized powder in a cool, dry place away from light. After reconstitution, keep refrigerated at 2-8°C.
Solubility: Reconstitute with BAC water. Gently swirl to dissolve, do not shake.
Shelf Life: Lyophilized form has a shelf life of up to 24 months. Once reconstituted, recommended use within 4-6 weeks.
Handling: Use sterile techniques to maintain product stability and integrity.
Important Notice
This product is intended for laboratory and research use only. It is not for human or veterinary consumption, and is not approved for use as a food, drug, cosmetic, or household chemical. Baldena Biolabs does not condone or support self-administration of this product. By purchasing, you confirm you are a qualified researcher or research institution and accept full responsibility for safe and legal handling in accordance with applicable laws.
