Molecular Characteristics
Complete Specifications
Structural Composition
3-Hydroxy-4-(trimethylammonio)butanoate, containing a quaternary ammonium group and a carboxylate moiety
Physical Properties
L-Carnitine is a small, naturally occurring quaternary ammonium compound characterized by a permanently charged trimethylammonium group and a carboxylate functional group. Its zwitterionic structure contributes to strong aqueous solubility and stability under standard laboratory conditions. As a non-peptide molecule, it is not subject to proteolytic degradation. Storage in a dry, light-protected environment helps maintain stability, as the compound may be hygroscopic and absorb moisture from the atmosphere.
Analysis & Documentation
Identity
Each production lot is checked against the reference structure recorded for this compound:
- Classification — Naturally occurring quaternary ammonium compound (non-peptide)
- Molecular formula — C₇H₁₅NO₃
- Expected mass — ~161.20 Da
- CAS registry — 541-15-1
- Chain length — Not applicable (non-peptide compound)
- PubChem CID — 10917
Analytical Methods
Testing is carried out per lot by an independent laboratory. The methods measure what the material is and how much of it is the target compound:
- RP-HPLC — reverse-phase separation of the target from process-related impurities; purity is reported as area percent of the main peak
- Mass spectrometry — observed mass compared against the expected molecular mass above
- Retention time — compared against a reference standard run under the same conditions
- Chromatogram — reproduced on the certificate so the peak and any shoulders can be inspected directly
Material & Documentation
What arrives, and how to tie it back to its paperwork:
- Appearance as supplied — White crystalline or hygroscopic powder
- Solubility — Highly soluble in water and polar solvents
- Lot number — printed on the container label and used to look up the certificate
- Certificate — indexed by lot at Certificates of Analysis
Laboratory Handling and Storage Protocols
Lyophilized Powder Storage
- Store at –20°C to –80°C in the original, sealed vial
- Protect from light exposure and moisture
- A desiccated storage environment is recommended
- Stability data suggests extended stability when stored at −20 °C or below.
Reconstituted Solution Storage
- Short-term storage: Up to 7 days at 4°C
- Long-term storage: Store at –20°C in aliquots
- Use single-use aliquots to preserve peptide integrity
- Minimize freeze–thaw cycles; single-use aliquots are strongly recommended
Stability Characteristics
L-Carnitine is a small-molecule research compound with a stable chemical profile under standard laboratory conditions. Proper moisture control, appropriate solvent selection, and minimized freeze–thaw exposure help maintain compound integrity. When handled and stored correctly, L-Carnitine supports reliable use in biochemical, cellular, and analytical research settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is L-Carnitine?
L-Carnitine is a naturally occurring compound synthesized in the body and also obtained from dietary sources. In research environments, it is used to study fatty acid oxidation and mitochondrial energy production pathways.
Is L-Carnitine a peptide?
No. L-Carnitine is not a peptide. It is a small-molecule compound structurally distinct from peptide-based research compounds.
Are there different forms of carnitine used in research?
Yes. Common forms include:
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L-Carnitine (base form)
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Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALCAR)
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Propionyl-L-Carnitine
Each form may be studied for slightly different metabolic or cellular pathway characteristics in research models.
How is L-Carnitine supplied?
L-Carnitine is typically supplied as a powder or crystalline compound in sealed containers or vials to maintain stability during storage and transport.
How should unreconstituted L-Carnitine be stored?
Unreconstituted L-Carnitine should be stored:
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At room temperature or 2–8 °C, depending on manufacturer guidelines
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In a sealed container
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Protected from excessive heat and moisture
How should prepared L-Carnitine solutions be handled and stored?
Once reconstituted:
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Store at 2–8 °C for short-term laboratory use
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For extended storage, aliquot and freeze at −20 °C or below
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Minimize freeze–thaw cycles using single-use aliquots
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Gently swirl to mix; avoid vigorous agitation
Does L-Carnitine require a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be available for each batch of L-Carnitine, verifying identity and purity to ensure research quality and traceability.
Is L-Carnitine FDA-approved?
When sold as a research compound, L-Carnitine is not FDA-approved for diagnostic or therapeutic use and must be marketed strictly for laboratory research purposes.
This product is not for human consumption. It is sold strictly for research and educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Any clinical data or research information referenced on this page is derived from peer-reviewed scientific literature and official publications. This information is provided for educational reference only and does not constitute medical advice or product claims.
By purchasing this product, you acknowledge that you are a qualified researcher and agree to use it in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
