Italy's Sigma-Tau Healthscience has received a US patent for a composition to prevent muscle fatigue.
The patented substance contains L-carnitine, in combination with creatinol-phosphate, a synergy which is said to boost the potential of both ingredients. The compound would be used in a supplement to increase energy to muscles and enhance sports performance.
Sigma-Tau, known for its L-carnitine research, already has a patent (WO 98/43499) for a nutritional supplement based on a carnitine and creatine combination, to counter muscle fatigue.
Both carnitine and creatinol-phosphate are well known for their important metabolic effects. Carnitines are known to play a major role in the processes of beta-oxidation of fatty acids in the formation of ATP and also have important antioxidant activity protecting against oxidative stress in the myocardial and endothelial cells.
Creatinol-phosphate has been shown to be involved in ATP synthesis which is reduced during muscular exercise. It has been shown to increase muscular strength in human subjects, which is also marked in the elderly, as well as reduce asthenia and muscular weakness in convalescent subjects.
Both the carnitines and creatinol-phosphate are products known for their low toxicity and good tolerability, noted the patent, number 6,602,512.
Sigma-Tau most recently incorporated its L-carnitine into a supplement designed to help slow age-related macular degeneration. Named 'Phototrop', the formula contains the company's Acetyl-L-carnitine, in combination with omega-3 fatty acids and Coenzyme Q10. It is currently only licensed for use in Italy where it was introduced in capsule form in January.