Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Cysteine compounds, including N-acetylcysteine (NAC), are supported by scientific evidence for their role in supporting mitochondrial function. Cysteine is a precursor to glutathione, one of the most important endogenous antioxidants in cells, including mitochondria. Glutathione helps neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during mitochondrial respiration, thereby protecting mitochondrial DNA, proteins, and lipids from oxidative damage. Several preclinical and clinical studies suggest that supplementation with NAC or other cysteine sources can increase intracellular glutathione levels, enhance mitochondrial antioxidant defense, and improve mitochondrial function under conditions of oxidative stress or certain disease states (such as neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and hepatic injury). However, the strength of the evidence varies depending on the clinical context, and much of the most robust data comes from animal or cellular models rather than large-scale human trials. While cysteine compounds are not universally accepted as mitochondrial "boosters" in healthy individuals, their use is justified by mechanistic studies and clinical observations, particularly in situations of glutathione depletion or increased oxidative stress.

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