The levels of polyamines (putrescine, spermine, spermidine) in erythrocytes from patients with hypertonic discirculatory encephalopathy are reduced (by 37, 45, and 50%, respectively) in comparison with the corresponding parameters in the control group. Addition of carnosine to the treatment protocol for chronic brain ischemia normalized the content of putrescine and spermine. The mechanisms of carnosine influence on polyamine metabolism are discussed: trapping of acrolein, end-product of polyamine oxidation, and compensation of NMDA-receptor excitotoxicity.
