Alpha-Lipoic Acid (Lipoic Acid) | CAS 1200-22-2

Product Name: Alpha-Lipoic Acid (Lipoic Acid)
CAS No.: 1200-22-2
Molecular Formula: C₈H₁₄O₂S₂
Structure: 1,2-dithiolane-3-pentanoic acid (cyclic disulfide dicarboxylic acid thiolactone)
Appearance: Yellow crystals
Melting Point: 60–62 °C
Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; freely soluble in ethanol and propylene glycol
Optical Activity: R- and S-enantiomers exist (R-form is biologically active)

1. Introduction

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a universal thiol antioxidant involved in mitochondrial dehydrogenase systems as a coenzyme and is capable of regenerating other antioxidants (glutathione, vitamins C and E). It possesses neuroprotective and hepatoprotective effects.

ALA is synthesized in small amounts in the liver and mitochondria, but needs increase under oxidative stress. It is used orally and parenterally for the correction of diabetic neuropathy, intoxications, and as a "detox factor."

2. Synthesis

Industrial synthesis: oxidation of dithiopentanoic acid or via chlorine derivatives with disulfide ring closure.

3. Properties

• Appearance: Yellow crystals

• Melting Point: 60–62 °C

• Solubility: Slightly soluble in water; freely soluble in ethanol and propylene glycol

• Optical Activity: R- and S-enantiomers exist (R-form is biologically active)

4. Applications

• Pharmaceuticals: Treatment of diabetic neuropathy and polyneuropathies

• Nutraceuticals: Antioxidant complexes, "detox supplements"

• Cosmetics: Anti-aging serums for skin mitochondrial protection

5. Conclusion

Alpha-lipoic acid is an important bioenergetic antioxidant with broad clinical and nutraceutical significance. Special attention is paid to the R-enantiomer for its high bioavailability and specificity for enzyme systems.