title: Improved N-retention during L-carnitine-supplemented total parenteral nutrition.
abstract: The influence of intravenously administered L-carnitine on lipid- and nitrogen-metabolism was studied during total parenteral nutrition of piglets (mean weight 4077 g; n = 9). The infusion protocol was divided into three isocaloric and isonitrogenous 48-hr periods. Amino acids (3 g/kg day) were administered throughout all three periods: 140 cal/kg/day were given as nonprotein calories, consisting only of glucose during period 1; during periods 2 and 3, an amount of glucose calorically equivalent to 4 g fat/kg/day was substituted with a lipid emulsion, and L-carnitine (1.5 mg/kg/day) was added in period 3. Key parameters of fat- and nitrogen-metabolism were determined during the entire regime. Indirect calorimetry was performed and the respiratory quotient calculated during all three periods. The results demonstrate a more effective lipolysis and oxidation of fatty acids during L-carnitine supplementation. These changes produce an increased energy gain from exogenously administered fat and a distinct improvement in nitrogen balance.
mesh_terms: D000596:Amino Acids / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000818:Animals; D002153:Calorimetry, Indirect; D002331:Carnitine / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000097:blood; D005217:Fat Emulsions, Intravenous / Q000008:administration & dosage; D005947:Glucose / Q000008:administration & dosage; D050356:Lipid Metabolism; D008055:Lipids / Q000097:blood; D008297:Male; D009584:Nitrogen / Q000378:metabolism*; D010084:Oxidation-Reduction; D010288:Parenteral Nutrition; D010289:Parenteral Nutrition, Total; D013552:Swine; D013556:Swine, Miniature
chemical_list: D000596:Amino Acids; D005217:Fat Emulsions, Intravenous; D008055:Lipids; D005947:Glucose; D009584:Nitrogen; D002331:Carnitine