Anserine is a methylated analog of carnosine that functions as an intracellular buffer and free radical scavenger in muscle tissue. It contributes to endurance and recovery in migratory fish and poultry. In humans, dietary anserine is rapidly hydrolyzed by serum carnosinase into β-alanine and 1-methyl-histidine, which are bioavailable and exert antioxidant, anti-glycation, and anti-fatigue effects.
Clinical studies demonstrate benefits for cognitive function in older adults, uric acid regulation, muscle recovery, and blood pressure modulation. Commercial anserine is typically extracted from bonito (skipjack tuna) or chicken muscle by water extraction, ion-exchange purification, and spray drying. Standardized to 30%, 40%, or higher anserine plus carnosine content. Meets FDA GRAS (self-affirmed for bonito peptides), EU Novel Food (bonito-derived), and Japanese functional food regulatory standards.