Update on nutritional supplementation with branched-chain amino acids.

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW:

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) have a peculiar role in whole-body nitrogen metabolism. BCAAs are not only a substrate for protein synthesis, but also modulate several components of the synthetic machinery and help to conserve muscle mass; accordingly, several conditions, characterized by protein loss and catabolic status, are likely to benefit from amino acid administration. In addition, the competitive action of BCAAs on amino acid transport across the blood-brain barrier may ultimately alter the synthesis of brain neurotransmitters, involved in neurological diseases.

RECENT FINDINGS:

Both putative actions of BCAAs have been tested in controlled clinical studies in the last few years. The beneficial effects on nutrition were reported to improve muscle performance, reduce protein loss during bed-rest, favor weight loss in obesity, reduce catabolism in trauma patients and improve clinical outcomes in patients with advanced cirrhosis. In this last area, the effects on nutrition might be coupled with the effects on hepatic encephalopathy mediated by improved neurotransmission, successfully tested in mania, tardive dyskinesia and spinocerebellar degeneration.

SUMMARY:

After 30 years of investigation with BCAAs, new studies each year provide further evidence supporting their beneficial effect in a variety of diseases. There is a need for long-term, randomized clinical studies, both in the prevention and in the treatment of various pathological conditions.

• Authors: Giampaolo Bianchi, Rebecca Marzocchi, Federica Agostini, Giulio Marchesini
• Journal: Current opinion in clinical nutrition and metabolic care (Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care) Vol. 8 Issue 1 Pg. 83-7 (Jan 2005) ISSN: 1363-1950 [Print] England
• PMID: 15586005 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Amino Acids, Branched-Chain
• Neurotransmitter Agents

Topics

• Amino Acids, Branched-Chain (administration & dosage, therapeutic use)
• Brain (metabolism)
• Dietary Supplements
• Gluconeogenesis
• Humans
• Liver Diseases (therapy)
• Muscle, Skeletal (metabolism)
• Neurotransmitter Agents (metabolism)
• Obesity (therapy)