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Review
. 2022 Dec 21;15(1):18.
doi: 10.3390/nu15010018.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Glucose Metabolism: A Comprehensive Update on Biochemical and Therapeutic Features

Umberto Capece  1   2 , Simona Moffa  1   2 , Ilaria Improta  1   2 , Gianfranco Di Giuseppe  1   2 , Enrico Celestino Nista  2   3 , Chiara M A Cefalo  1   2 , Francesca Cinti  1   2 , Alfredo Pontecorvi  1   2 , Antonio Gasbarrini  2   3 , Andrea Giaccari  1   2 , Teresa Mezza  2   3
Affiliations
Review

Alpha-Lipoic Acid and Glucose Metabolism: A Comprehensive Update on Biochemical and Therapeutic Features

Umberto Capece et al. Nutrients. .

Abstract

Alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) is a natural compound with antioxidant and pro-oxidant properties which has effects on the regulation of insulin sensitivity and insulin secretion. ALA is widely prescribed in patients with diabetic polyneuropathy due to its positive effects on nerve conduction and alleviation of symptoms. It is, moreover, also prescribed in other insulin resistance conditions such as metabolic syndrome (SM), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and obesity. However, several cases of Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome (IAS) have been reported in subjects taking ALA. The aim of the present review is to describe the main chemical and biological functions of ALA in glucose metabolism, focusing on its antioxidant activity, its role in modulating insulin sensitivity and secretion and in symptomatic peripheral diabetic polyneuropathy. We also provide a potential explanation for increased risk for the development of IAS.

Keywords: alpha-lipoic; complications; diabetes prevention; glucose metabolism.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
ALA and glucose metabolism.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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