Decline of life’s energy theory of ageing 1. Revitalisation of energy metabolism and ageing mitochondria

Abstract

This article discusses the decline in mitochondrial energy production capability that occurs as animals age. Correlation is made between age-related mitochondrial functionality decline, lower growth hormone (GH) secretion and declining mitochondrial component levels and the chronic wasting conditions that arise as a consequence. During the past few years a number of patents have been issued that have utilised compositions containing the nutraceuticals carnitine, acetyl carnitine and their derivatives to therapeutically treat problems of energy metabolism. The administration of carnitine derivatives will improve the quality of living during the period of life when the body’s energy declines. The significance of the patented therapeutic use of carnitine derivatives to re-establish mitochondrial functionality and its relationship to the ageing process are reviewed.

• acetyl-L-carnitine
• age
• ageing
• cardiolipin
• carnitine
• energy metabolism
• growth hormone
• mitochondria