Endogenous mitochondrial metabolite that transports acetyl groups across the mitochondrial membrane. Exogenous acetylcarnitine enhances mitochondrial function in aged rats. As an acetate donor to coenzyme A, it increases the central and peripheral acetylcholine synthesis and function. Acetylcarnitine has antinociceptive activity that may be mediated by enhanced activity of muscarinic cholinergic receptors or mGlu2 glutamate receptors. Endogenous mitochondrial metabolite that transports acetyl groups across the mitochondrial membrane. Exogenous acetylcarnitine enhances mitochondrial function in aged rats. As an acetate donor to coenzyme A, it increases the central and peripheral acetylcholine synthesis and function. Acetylcarnitine has antinociceptive activity that may be mediated by enhanced activity of muscarinic cholinergic receptors or mGlu2 glutamate receptors. A cholinergic agonist that stimulates neuronal response to serotonin and acetylcholine.