| Function |
Lipoic Acid, also known as a-lipoic acid, is an organic sulfer-containing fatty
acid that consists of a cyclic disulfide and a carboxylic acid. The conjugate
base of Lipoic Acid, namely Lipoate, is present under most physiological
conditions and, like Lipoic Acid, is essential for aerobic life, participating in
various transfer reactions within the pryruvate dehydrogenase complex. Via
its essential role in metabolism, Lipoic Acid is thought to function as a neuro
protective agent and an anti-inflammatory compound, providing effective
treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
Additionally, Lipoic Acid can be used to treat mercury intoxication, as its two
thiol groups provide strong chelating activity. Lipoic Acid is a common dietary
supplement that is found in a variety of foods, including spinach, potatoes
and broccoli, as well as liver, heart and kidney meat. |
