Effects of carnosine and histidine-containing dipeptides on biomarkers of inflammation and oxidative stress: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Context: Carnosine and histidine-containing dipeptides (HCDs) are suggested to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative benefits, but their effects on circulating adipokines and inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers remain unclear. Objectives: The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the impact of HCD supplementation on inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers. Data Sources: A systematic search was performed on Medline via Ovid, Scopus, Embase, ISI Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases from inception to 25 January 2023. Data Extraction: Using relevant key words, trials investigating the effects of carnosine/HCD supplementation on markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, including C-reactive protein (CRP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), adiponectin, malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and catalase (CAT) were identified. Meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models to calculate the weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Data Analysis: A total of 9 trials comprising 350 participants were included in the present meta-analysis. Carnosine/HCD supplementation led to a significant reduction in CRP (WMD: -0.97 mg/L; 95% CI: -1.59, -0.36), TNF-α (WMD: -3.60 pg/mL; 95% CI: -7.03, -0.18), and MDA (WMD: -0.34 μmol/L; 95% CI: -0.56, -0.12) and an elevation in CAT (WMD: 4.48 U/mL; 95% CI: 2.43, 6.53) compared with placebo. In contrast, carnosine/HCD supplementation had no effect on IL-6, adiponectin, GSH, SOD, and TAC levels. Conclusion: Carnosine/HCD supplementation may reduce inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers, and potentially modulate the cardiometabolic risks associated with chronic low-grade inflammation and lipid peroxidation. Systematic Review Registration: PROSPERO registration no. CRD42017075354.