Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) is a naturally occurring form of L-Carnitine, a vitamin-like nutrient synthesized in the body from the amino acids lysine and methionine. ALC serves as a transport molecule for "active acetate," which is a source of fuel for metabolic processes that take place in cells. ALC carries active acetate (the "Acetyl" portion) directly into the mitochondrion, the cell's energy-generating structure. Active acetate is used to produce cellular energy in the form of ATP. Both L-Carnitine and ALC serve as fat carriers. Unlike L-Carnitine, ALC readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, where it has specific benefits for brain neurons. When taken orally, ALC has been shown to increase ALC levels in both blood and cerebrospinal fluid, demonstrating its uptake in the brain.1 Best Acetyl-L-Carnitine consists of Biosint™ Acetyl-L-Carnitine, which is manufactured in Italy by the Sigma Tau company. It is derived from a base of pharmaceutical-grade L-Carnitine manufactured using an FDA-approved process that fully complies with international monograph standards for carnitine production. Known as a global leader in L-Carnitine research, Sigma Tau holds numerous patents for production of L-Carnitine, and its L-Carnitine derivatives, such as ALC, which are used in clinical trials. Benefits Supports cognitive function* ALC has been studied for its effect on cognitive performance and emotional health in the elderly. In a single-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 481 elderly subjects exhibiting mild memory impairment improved their scores on a memory test after taking 1500 mg of ALC a day for 90 days.2 Hospitalized elderly people taking ALC have shown improvements in mental outlook.3 While ALC is not a treatment or cure for Alzheimer's disease, double-blind studies suggest it may help slow the rate at which early-stage Alzheimer's patients deteriorate.4 In particular, ALC seems to benefit short-term memory in these patients.5 Supports biosynthesis of acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter for brain and nerve function* Brain function requires coordinated communication between brain cells. Brain and nerve cells ("neurons") communicate across tiny cell-to-cell gaps called "synapses." The passage of an electrical impulse from one neuron to the next requires a "neurotransmitter." When an electrical signal arrives at the synaptic junction, the neuron releases a neurotransmitter into the synapse. The neuron on the other side of the synapse contains receptors for the neurotransmitter; these receptors bind the neurotransmitter, triggering a series of chemical events that sends a new electrical signal down the membrane of the receiving neuron. Neurotransmitters work together like an orchestra to transmit information throughout the brain and nervous system. Acetylcholine is the most abundant neurotransmitter in the body, regulating activities of vital organs, blood vessels and communication between nerves and muscles. In the brain, acetylcholine helps facilitate memory and learning as well as influence emotions. ALC is structurally similar to acetylcholine, and brain neurons stimulated by acetylcholine are receptive to stimulation by ALC.6 It has been shown experimentally that ALC supplies acetyl groups for the biosynthesis of acetylcholine.7 ALC's hypothesized cholinomimetic (acts like acetylcholine) activity has led researchers to investigate its effects on mental function and emotional health.8 Helps supply the brain with energy by improving energetics in the mitochondrion* The acetyl groups donated by ALC can be used to synthesize acetyl-CoA, the key substrate for energy metabolism in the mitochondrion. 9 Acetyl-CoA enters the Krebs cycle, the mitochondrial mechanism that generates cellular energy in the form of ATP. ALC easily crosses the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to play various roles in maintaining brain neuron (nerve cell) function. When given by oral administration, the concentration of ALC is increased in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid.10 Stabilizes intracellular membranes* ALC was found