anserine

Anserine is a histidine-containing dipeptide with the chemical name beta-alanyl-N-methyl-L-histidine. It consists of beta-alanine linked to a methylated histidine residue.

It occurs naturally in animal tissues, especially skeletal muscle and brain. In birds such as chickens, turkeys, and ducks, anserine is relatively abundant and contributes to the pool of histidine-containing dipeptides alongside carnosine.

Biosynthesis of anserine is not as well characterized as that of carnosine, but it is produced by similar enzymatic pathways in muscle tissue, using beta-alanine and a methylated form of histidine.

Functions include antioxidant activity, buffering capacity, metal ion chelation, and protection against glycation. In animals, higher anserine levels have been associated with protection against oxidative stress and fatigue during exercise in some studies; however, human data are limited and inconsistent.

Dietary sources are mainly meat and poultry; processing and cooking may affect levels. Anserine is also a subject of research for aging-related and metabolic conditions, but it is not currently a widely used dietary supplement.