Beyond Muscles: The Untapped Potential of Creatine
Research snapshot:
2016 review study finds creatine offers neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits beyond muscle performance.
2016 |
Review |
Creatine |
Cognition |
Overview.
This study explores the potential of creatine supplementation beyond its well-known effects on muscle performance, highlighting its neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties.
Background.
A team of researchers associated with Creighton University, the University of Nebraska Medical Center, and other institutions conducted this study, which was published in the International Immunopharmacology journal.
Objectives.
The study aimed to examine the potential of creatine supplementation in modulating disease, particularly focusing on its neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects. It also sought to discuss the mechanisms of action of creatine in these contexts.
Study design.
The research involved various animal models and in vitro studies to investigate creatine's effects on neurological disorders such as traumatic brain injury, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, cerebral ischemia, and Parkinson's disease. It also examined creatine's impact on inflammation and immune responses.
Results.
The study found that creatine supplementation provided significant neuroprotection in models of traumatic brain injury, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and cerebral ischemia. It also demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects in various models of inflammation and reduced oxidative stress. Additionally, creatine was shown to modulate immune responses by downregulating toll-like receptors and reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Conclusions.
The researchers concluded that creatine should be explored for its neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential use in the treatment of various neurological and inflammatory diseases. However, they noted that further human studies are needed to confirm these findings and to optimize dosage protocols.
Original paper.
Riesberg LA, Weed SA, McDonald TL, Eckerson JM, Drescher KM. Beyond Muscles: The Untapped Potential of Creatine. Int Immunopharmacol. 2016 Jan 8;37:31–42. doi:10.1016/j.intimp.2015.12.034. PMC4915971.
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