alpha-Lipoic Acid, an Organosulfur Biomolecule a Novel Therapeutic Agent for Neurodegenerative Disorders: An Mechanistic Perspective

Lipoic acid (alpha-LA) (1,2-dithiolane3-pentanoic acid (C8H14O2S2) is also called thioctic acid with an oxidized (disulfide, LA) and a reduced (di-thiol: dihydro-lipoic acid, DHLA) form of LA. alpha-LA is a potent anti-oxidative agent that has a significant potential to treat neurodegenerative disorders. alpha-LA is both hydrophilic and hydrophobic in nature. It is widely distributed in plants and animals in cellular membranes and in the cytosol, which is responsible for LA's action in both the cytosol and plasma membrane. A systematic literature review of Bentham, Scopus, PubMed, Medline, and EMBASE (Elsevier) databases was carried out to understand the Nature and mechanistic interventions of the alpha-Lipoic acid for central nervous system diseases. Moreover, alpha-LA readily crosses the blood-brain barrier, which is a significant factor for CNS activities. The mechanisms of alpha-LA reduction are highly tissue-specific. alpha-LA produces its neuroprotective effect by inhibiting reactive oxygen species formation and neuronal damage, modulating protein levels, and promoting neurotransmitters and anti-oxidant levels. Hence, the execution of alpha-LA as a therapeutic ingredient in the therapy of neurodegenerative disorders is promising. Finally, based on evidence, it can be concluded that alpha-LA can prevent diseases related to the nervous system.

Automated summary

Lipoic acid (alpha-LA), also known as thioctic acid, is a potent antioxidant compound with the potential to treat neurodegenerative disorders. It acts through various mechanisms and can easily cross the blood-brain barrier to reach the central nervous system. Therefore, it holds promise as a therapeutic ingredient for neurodegenerative diseases.