Journal: Nutrients. Volume: 15 Year: 2022 DOI: 10.3390/nu15010018

Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Glucose

Metabolism: A Comprehensive

Update on Biochemical and

Therapeutic Features

Authors: Capece U, Moffa S, Improta I, Di Giuseppe G, Nista EC,

Cefalo CMA, Cinti F, Pontecorvi A, Gasbarrini A, Giaccari A, Mezza T.

Introduction

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful antioxidant naturally found in our

bodies and certain foods. It plays a crucial role in helping our cells

convert glucose (sugar) into energy. This research dives into ALA’s

potential benefits for managing glucose levels and its possible use as

a treatment for conditions like diabetes and insulin resistance.

Abstract

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring antioxidant with

important roles in cellular energy production and glucose metabolism.

This review summarizes the current understanding of ALA’s

biochemical properties and its therapeutic potential in various

metabolic disorders, focusing on its impact on glucose homeostasis.

Preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate that ALA can improve

insulin sensitivity, reduce oxidative stress, and enhance glucose

uptake by cells. These findings suggest ALA could be a valuable tool

for managing conditions like type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and

polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Keywords:MeSH terms, Review, Antioxidants / therapeutic use,

Search in PubMed, Search in MeSH, Add to Search, Autoimmune

Diseases / drug therapy, Search in PubMed, Search in MeSH, Add to

Search, Diabetic Neuropathies / drug therapy, Search in PubMed,

Search in MeSH, Add to Search, Female, Search in PubMed, Search

in MeSH, Add to Search, Glucose / therapeutic use, Search in

PubMed, Search in MeSH, Add to Search, Humans, Search in

PubMed, Search in MeSH, Add to Search, Insulin Resistance,

Search in PubMed, Search in MeSH, Add to Search, Polycystic

Ovary Syndrome / drug therapy, Search in PubMed, Search in

MeSH, Add to Search, Thioctic Acid* / therapeutic use, Search in

PubMed, Search in MeSH, Add to Search, Thioctic Acid, Antioxidants,

Glucose

Study Overview

Research Objective: This review aims to provide a comprehensive

update on the biochemical properties and therapeutic potential of

alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in relation to glucose metabolism. The authors

explore ALA’s role in cellular energy production, insulin sensitivity,

and its possible applications for managing metabolic disorders like

type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and polycystic ovary syndrome

(PCOS).

Methods Used: The review employed a systematic approach,

analyzing preclinical and clinical studies investigating the effects of

ALA on glucose metabolism. The authors examined the biochemical

mechanisms underlying ALA’s actions and summarized the findings

from various research articles.

Key Findings: – ALA exhibits potent antioxidant activity, scavenging

free radicals and protecting cells from oxidative damage. – ALA

enhances insulin sensitivity by promoting glucose uptake into cells

and improving insulin signaling pathways. – Studies suggest ALA may

have beneficial effects on managing type 2 diabetes, insulin

resistance, and PCOS by improving glycemic control.

Conclusion: ALA demonstrates promising therapeutic potential for

addressing metabolic disorders related to impaired glucose

metabolism. Further research is warranted to optimize dosage

regimens and explore the long-term efficacy and safety of ALA

supplementation.

Reviewer’s Commentary

The review effectively summarizes the current knowledge regarding

ALA’s role in glucose metabolism. The authors provide a clear

explanation of ALA’s biochemical mechanisms and present

compelling evidence from preclinical and clinical studies supporting

its potential therapeutic benefits. However, further research is needed

to establish optimal dosages and long-term safety profiles for ALA

supplementation.

Relevance to Public Health / Scientific Community: This review

highlights the importance of exploring natural compounds like ALA for

managing metabolic disorders. The findings underscore the potential

of dietary interventions and personalized medicine approaches for

improving glucose control and overall health outcomes.

Limitations Noted: The authors acknowledge that more research is

needed to fully understand the long-term effects and optimal dosages

of ALA supplementation. Larger-scale clinical trials are crucial to

validate the preliminary findings and establish clear guidelines for its

therapeutic use.

Ethical Considerations: While the review focuses on scientific

evidence, it implicitly raises ethical considerations regarding access

to potentially beneficial natural compounds like ALA. Ensuring

equitable access and affordability for individuals who could benefit

from ALA supplementation is an important aspect to consider.

Source Citation

Full citation: Capece U et al.. (NutrientsActionsSearch). Alpha-Lipoic

Acid and Glucose Metabolism: A Comprehensive Update on

Biochemical and Therapeutic Features. Nutrients. DOI: 10.3390/

nu15010018

Legal and Ethical Use Statement

This summary is created for educational and informational purposes

only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a

qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before

making any decisions related to your health or treatment.