Zinc-L-Carnosine (Polaprezinc)

Category: compound

A chelated compound of zinc and L-carnosine with gut-healing, anti-inflammatory, and potential neuroprotective properties. Used for gastric ulcers in Japan.

Mechanism Detail

Zinc-carnosine stabilizes gut mucosal integrity, reduces intestinal permeability ('leaky gut'), and modulates NF-κB. Zinc is a cofactor for SOD1 (relevant to ALS). L-carnosine is a dipeptide antioxidant concentrated in the brain and muscles that scavenges reactive carbonyl species and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs).

Clinical Status

Approved in Japan for gastric ulcers. Studies show gut barrier restoration in chemotherapy and NSAID-induced damage. Neuroprotective effects primarily preclinical. Well-tolerated.

Relevant Diseases

• ALS
• Parkinson's Disease

Relevant Therapies

• Nutraceuticals

Related Terms

• SOD1
• Gut-brain axis
• NF-κB
• Antioxidant