The levels of anserine and carnosine known as imidazole dipeptides were determined by using amino acid analyzer and modified method for HPLC. It has been suggested that the dipeptides are associated with muscles that maintain their energy supplies by anaerobic and/ or aerobic means and that function as buffers. The levels of carnosine in human blood are 23.0 ± 7.1 nmoles/ml in the control group and 50.4 ± 20.4 nmoles/ml in the endurance running group.
　The difference is highly significant (P< 0.01). This provides an index of endurance ability. The levels of anserine and carnosine from deproteinized lower limb muscles of rat decreased following endurance training. Since a rise of the ratio with aging, an endurance training may prevent muscle deterioration. Biochemical functions of muscle and blood dipeptides following exercise training are discussed.

DESCENTE SPORTS SCIENCE Vol.13/THE DESCENTE AND ISHIMOTO MEMORIAL FOUNDATION FOR THE PROMOTION SPORTS SCIENCE