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In a study published Oct. 19 in Cell, Yale researchers identified a previously unknown mechanism by which a nutrient abundant in red meat and commonly used in exercise supplements may amplify inflammation.

The molecule, L-carnitine, also occurs naturally in the body and reaches high concentrations in skeletal muscle. It is best known for promoting fat metabolism, explains Eric Elliott, M.D., Ph.D., assistant professor of medicine (infectious diseases) at Yale School of Medicine (YSM) and first author of the study.

"L-carnitine helps transport fats into mitochondria so they can be broken down for energy," Elliott says. "In simpler terms, it has become synonymous with fat burning, which is why it has also gained prominence as an exercise and weight-loss supplement."

The discovery emerged from the researchers' investigation of metabolic changes during sepsis, a life-threatening condition in which the body's response to infection damages its own tissues and organs.

"Sepsis is incredibly challenging," Elliott says. "Patients with sepsis can become critically ill, and among patients with sepsis treated in intensive care units, some studies report mortality rates approaching 40%."

Much of the harm caused by sepsis can result from a dysregulated inflammatory response rather than an inability to control the infection itself, Elliott explains.

The researchers exposed mice to lipopolysaccharide (LPS), a bacterial component commonly used to model the inflammation seen during sepsis. Following LPS exposure, blood levels of L-carnitine fell substantially, the researchers found.

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