Thioctic acid

Thioctic acid, also known as Alpha-lipoic acid, is an organosulfur compound derived from caprylic acid (octanoic acid). It is a vital cofactor for many enzyme systems and is involved in various metabolic reactions such as energy production and glucose metabolism. Thioctic acid is both water and fat soluble, which allows it to work in every cell or tissue in the body. The compound is also an antioxidant, meaning it can neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.

Chemistry

Thioctic acid is a chiral compound, meaning it has two possible isomers, R and S. The R-isomer is naturally occurring and is the form involved in our metabolism. The S-isomer is produced synthetically and is not biologically active. Thioctic acid is a medium-chain fatty acid with a sulfide group (–S–S–) at the C6 and C8 positions.

Biosynthesis

In humans, thioctic acid is synthesized in the mitochondria from cysteine and octanoic acid using the enzyme lipoic acid synthase.

Pharmacology

Thioctic acid has been used in the treatment of diabetes and neuropathy. It improves insulin sensitivity and reduces symptoms of diabetic neuropathy. It has also been used as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease and multiple sclerosis, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in these areas.

Safety

Thioctic acid is generally considered safe, but it can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It can also lower blood sugar levels, so people with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar closely when taking this supplement.

See also

• Antioxidant
• Diabetes
• Neuropathy
• Alzheimer's disease
• Multiple sclerosis