Carnosine and anserine are two common histidine-derived dipeptides, also known as imidazole dipeptides, found in muscle and brain tissues of animals. Their dietary and nutritional significance lies in their antioxidant properties and a number of investigators are looking at other health benefits of the compounds.

This volume surveys the current state of play in these and other areas of interest, including chemistry and biochemistry, immunology and cellular homeostasis. Chapters look in depth at some of the functions and effects in the body particularly with regard to exercise and fatigue, wound healing, cancer treatment and age-related diseases. Providing an up to date, interdisciplinary approach, this book is of great interest to researchers and professionals in chemistry, food science, nutrition, biochemistry, health sciences and sports sciences.