What do acylcarnitines primarily help transport?

Acylcarnitines primarily facilitate the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria, which is essential for energy production through fatty acid oxidation. In the process of aerobic metabolism, long-chain fatty acids cannot cross the inner mitochondrial membrane directly. Instead, they are converted into acylcarnitines, allowing them to be shuttled across the membrane.

The function of acylcarnitines is critical for energy metabolism, especially during prolonged exercise or periods of fasting when the body relies more on fat as a fuel source. Once inside the mitochondria, acylcarnitines can then be converted back into fatty acids and subsequently utilized in the beta-oxidation pathway, producing ATP.

Understanding this transport mechanism is essential for sports nutritionists, as it directly relates to how the body utilizes fat for energy during physical activity, influencing dietary strategies and supplementation for athletes.