N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a derivative of the sulphur-containing amino acid cysteine. In chemistry, a derivative is a derived substance that has a similar structure. N-acetylated cysteine is a white crystalline powder that dissolves easily in water. It is known for its mucolytic and antioxidant effects in respiratory diseases with thick secretions. Molecules held together by disulfide bridges are cleaved by N-acetylcysteine. Viscous and poorly soluble mucus becomes liquid and can be coughed up more easily. N-acetylcysteine is also proven in the treatment of poisoning with paracetamol .

What is N-acetylcysteine

NAC is a direct precursor of glutathione, which is an atypical tripeptide. This is formed from the amino acids glycine, cysteine and glutamic acid. It plays a particularly prominent role in erythrocytes (red blood cells). NAC increases the glutathione levels in the liver and supports it in detoxification.

Where does N-acetylcysteine occur?

The molecule N-acetylcysteine discovered in 1899 does not occur naturally in our bodies or in our food. As already mentioned, NAC is the direct precursor of glutathione, which is present in almost all living cells and has a protective function. Mainly stored in the liver, medical studies are looking at how potentially harmful compounds can be eliminated by drugs and also cigarette smoke. The glutathione level decreases with increasing age. Due to the antioxidant and liver-protecting properties of NAC, it is becoming increasingly popular in the bodybuilding sector, among others. As N-acetylcysteine is synthetic in nature, it cannot be obtained directly from food. Cysteine oxidizes quickly and the more stable N-acetylcysteine is generally used for supplementation.

Did you know? NAC is on the list of essential medicines of the WHO (World Health Organization).

What functions does N-acetylcysteine have in the human body?

After ingestion, N-acetylcysteine is metabolized to the deacetylated form L-cysteine and further metabolized to glutathione, which is one of the body's most potent antioxidants . Probably the most outstanding function of NAC lies in its ability to act on various levels of the organism. Especially in connection with the respiratory tract, health problems can be alleviated. NAC has the ability to reach the brain directly, as it crosses the blood-brain barrier. This prevents potentially toxic molecules from entering the central nervous system from the bloodstream. It is therefore obvious how effectively NAC can influence the nervous tissue. There are medical studies how mental disorders as well as substance addictions could be reduced by an intake of NAC .

Because N-acetylcysteine regulates glutamate levels and replenishes glutathione reserves, age-related oxidative stress in the brain is reduced and learning and memory capacity is improved . Dopamine function also appears to be improved. Cysteine and glutathione are essential for maintaining the immune system. An increase in the number of immune cells such as lymphocytes or macrophages can be achieved with NAC. As the addition of NAC increases the glutathione level in the liver, it is easier for the liver to detoxify harmful substances and toxins. Further functions of NAC are part of research work.

Did you know

By combining N-acetylcysteine with the amino acid glycine, GlyNACis obtained. This molecule could in animal studies extend the life of mice by 24% and in another study, conducted by Prof. Dr. Rajagopal Sekhar, the researchers were able to detect positive changes on the Hallmarks of Aging .Z.B . improved insulin resistance in the study participants.