TREATMENT DATABASE

Although taurine is usually classified as an amino acid, it is actually an organic acid, which is an organic compound with acidic properties but without a carboxyl group.

Taurine acts as a building block for all other amino acids and consequently is present in every cell in the body. It is a prime component of bile (thus aiding in fat digestion and vitamin absorption) and is found in high concentrations in heart muscle, skeletal muscle, white blood cells, and the central nervous system (CNS). Anxiety, hyperactivity, and poor brain function are related to taurine deficiency. Taurine can be synthesized in the body from cysteine, with the aid of vitamin B6.

Taurine is unusual in that it not only functions as a neurotransmitter, but as a potent antioxidant. When taurine interacts with the oxidant hypochlorous acid it forms taurine monochloramine, which inhibits the transcription iNOS gene as well as the expression of COX-2 protein, both of which are primary sources of inflammation. Taurine lowers NF-kappaB activity, which helps inhibit another important inflammatory pathway. It also acts to reduce intracellular calcium levels, thus lowering the production of nitric oxide. In its role as a neuromodulator, taurine stimulates the synthesis of GABA, the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. It also stimulates glycine receptors, leading to a down regulation of excitatory NMDA receptors. 

Due to its broad antioxidant properties, taurine has a beneficial effect on a variety of conditions, including tinnitus, obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, retinal damage, seizures, and liver disease.

USES IN ME/CFS: Dr. Majid Ali, author of The Canary and Chronic Fatigue, makes extensive use of taurine as an antioxidant and has reported excellent results in treating fatigue and chronic constipation. Dr. Cheney has observed that taurine may also be of benefit in treating hyperactive nervous system responses. ME/CFS patients have been shown to have high amounts of glutamate in the brain, which increases neuroexcitatory responses. Because taurine slows CNS impulses, it may help relieve symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness, especially when taken in conjunction with magnesium. Taurine is transported easily across the blood-brain barrier, allowing taurine supplements to work in the brain.

Treatment rating for Taurine