Previous studies suggested that L-Carnitine supplementation may result in improved vascular function in humans with endothelial dysfunction. However, no studies directly evaluated the effects of L-Carnitine supplementation on vascular function in healthy humans after consuming a high-fat meal. Research conducted by the Department of Kinesiology at the University of Connecticut was published in the November 2008 issue of the American Journal of Cardiology. The study demonstrated that supplementation of Carnipure™ tartrate, a special form of L-Carnitine produced by Lonza, improves flow-mediated dilation (FMD) in the brachial artery after consuming a high-fat meal. Improved FMD corresponds to improved vascular function.

High-fat meals are known to be stressors to the vascular endothelium, the interior lining of blood vessels. Any impairment made to the vascular endothelium may result in vascular dysfunctions.

Flow-mediated dilation in the brachial artery of the study subjects was found to increase significantly after a high-fat meal was consumed with Carnipure™ tartrate and preceded by supplementation of Carnipure™ tartrate. This effect was not demonstrated in the placebo group. This led to the conclusion that supplementation with Carnipure™ tartrate may improve vascular function in healthy individuals. 

L-Carnitine is produced by the body and plays a critical role in fat and energy metabolism. It carries long-chain fatty acids, one of the primary energy sources for our body, into the mitochondria where they are broken down for energy generation. A vast amount of research has shown that Carnipure™ tartrate supplementation may support cardiovascular health.

Lonza is the only manufacturer of the Carnipure™ brand of L-Carnitine products including Carnipure™ tartrate (U.S. Patent 5073376, Japan Patent JP 2546068 and other international patents). Carnipure™ tartrate consists of 68% pure L-Carnitine and 32% L-tartaric acid and is self affirmed as GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe). Carnipure™ products are crystalline, white, water-soluble and heat stable which makes them ideal for use in various food and drink applications. In addition, Carnipure™ tartrate is non-hygroscopic, odorless, has a pleasant citrus taste and excellent flowability. Further details are available at www.carnipure.com and www.carnipure-for-you.com.

About Lonza

Lonza is one of the world's leading suppliers to the pharmaceutical, healthcare and life science industries. Its products and services span its customers’ needs from research to final product manufacture. Lonza is the global leader in the production and support of active pharmaceutical ingredients both chemically as well as biotechnologically. Biopharmaceuticals are one of the key growth drivers of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Lonza has strong capabilities in large and small molecules, peptides, amino acids and niche bioproducts which play an important role in the development of novel medicines and healthcare products. Lonza is a leader in cell-based research, endotoxin detection and cell therapy manufacturing. Lonza is also a leading provider of value chemical and biotech ingredients to the nutrition, hygiene, preservation, agro and personal care markets.

Lonza is headquartered in Basel, Switzerland and is listed on the SWX Swiss Exchange. In 2008, Lonza had sales of CHF 2.94 billion. Further information can be found at www.lonza.com.