Product Description
pharmaceutical intermediates
AI Product Description
*The following content is generated by AI and is for reference only.
L(+)-Citrulline, chemically designated as L-2-amino-5-ureidopentanoic acid, is a non-proteinogenic alpha-amino acid naturally occurring in watermelons and various other fruits. Its molecular formula is C6H13N3O3, and it possesses a distinct CAS registry number of 372-75-8. This compound plays a pivotal role in human physiology, primarily functioning as a key intermediate in the urea cycle, where it facilitates the conversion of ammonia to urea for safe excretion. Beyond metabolic detoxification, L-Citrulline is renowned for its ability to boost nitric oxide (NO) production within the body. Upon ingestion, it is efficiently converted into L-Arginine in the kidneys, often resulting in higher plasma arginine levels than direct arginine supplementation due to reduced first-pass metabolism.
In the commercial and industrial sectors, L(+)-Citrulline is widely utilized as a dietary supplement for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. By enhancing nitric oxide synthesis, it promotes vasodilation, which improves blood flow, oxygen delivery to muscles, and nutrient transport. These physiological effects are believed to reduce muscle fatigue, accelerate recovery times, and enhance overall exercise performance. Consequently, it is a popular ingredient in pre-workout formulas and sports nutrition products. Furthermore, the compound finds applications in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in managing conditions related to vascular health, erectile dysfunction, and high blood pressure, owing to its capacity to relax blood vessels. In cosmetic formulations, it is sometimes incorporated to improve skin hydration and circulation. The "L(+)" designation specifically refers to the levorotatory optical activity of the pure enantiomer, ensuring biological compatibility with human enzymatic pathways. As a generally recognized safe (GRAS) substance, L-Citrulline serves as a versatile bioactive agent bridging nutritional science, clinical therapy, and performance enhancement technologies globally.