Definition

A dipeptide comprised of a beta-alanine and a 3-methyl-L-histidine, which is found in dietary red meat, with potential antioxidant, metal-chelating and anti-glycation activities. Carnosine scavenges both reactive oxygen species (ROS) and unsaturated aldehydes produced by cell membrane lipid peroxidation. Additionally, this dipeptide may reduce the rate of formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGE). Altogether, this may protect cells against oxidative damage. In addition, carnosine is able to chelate toxic metals.