Setting the Stage for Branched-Chain Amino Acids Use in Neurological Pathologies: Does a Single Oral Dose Provide Hours of Elevated Systemic Levels?

Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that branched-chain amino acids are neuroprotective and neurorestorative. Branched-chain amino acid supplements are now being recommended to be taken before contact sports to reduce concussions. While peaks and troughs in branched-chain amino acids have p...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Ezek Mathew, Nathan Jones, McKinley Dews, Dominique Neal, Anders Cohen
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-03-01
Series:Diseases
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9721/13/3/76
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Summary:Background: Recent studies have demonstrated that branched-chain amino acids are neuroprotective and neurorestorative. Branched-chain amino acid supplements are now being recommended to be taken before contact sports to reduce concussions. While peaks and troughs in branched-chain amino acids have previously been reported in hospital settings, the metabolism of a single recommended dose of over-the-counter branched-chain amino acids has yet to be elucidated. Methods: We analyzed a patented branched-chain amino acid product to assess its metabolism in 10 healthy adults. Results: Over the defined time points, measured levels of branched-chain amino acids remained significantly elevated when compared to the physiological baseline. The elevations in measured plasma levels indicate that a single oral dose is a viable intake option for increasing levels of branched-chain amino acids. Conclusions: This information can be leveraged to better plan branched-chain amino acid-based treatment doses in order to treat pathologies such as brain injury.
ISSN:2079-9721