Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
L-Carnitine (levocarnitine) is a quaternary-ammonium compound synthesized from lysine and methionine. It carries long-chain fatty acids across the inner mitochondrial membrane as acyl-carnitine esters — the carnitine shuttle.
L-Carnitine Structure and Identifiers
| Name | L-Carnitine |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | Levocarnitine |
| CAS number | 541-15-1 |
| PubChem CID | 10917 |
| Molecular formula | C7H15NO3 |
| Molecular weight | ≈161.2 g/mol |
| Type | Amino-acid derivative (not a peptide) |
The Carnitine Shuttle
Carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT1) on the outer mitochondrial membrane converts acyl-CoA to acyl-carnitine; a translocase moves it inward; CPT2 regenerates acyl-CoA in the matrix for β-oxidation.
Laboratory Applications
- Fatty-acid-oxidation assays
- CPT1/CPT2 enzyme studies
- Acyl-carnitine LC-MS reference standards
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Purity Testing and Storage
Every lot of L-Carnitine supplied by Cleared Peptides is tested by an independent laboratory for identity and purity (or composition, for multi-component preparations), and the lot Certificate of Analysis is published on our COA page. Store at room temperature, tightly sealed and protected from moisture. Handle according to your institution’s chemical-hygiene procedures.
Research materials referenced in this guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Is L-carnitine a peptide?
No. It is an amino-acid-derived quaternary-ammonium compound.
Is L-Carnitine for human use?
No. Cleared Peptides supplies L-Carnitine for laboratory research use only; it is not for human or veterinary use.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Sweeney JD, et al. L-carnitine and its possible role in red cell and platelet storage. Transfus Med Rev. 2004;18(1):58-65. PubMed 14689378 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
