Alpha
Lipoic Acid, the broadspectrum antioxidant, an anti aging element
Anti
oxidant activity of Alpha Lipoic Acid, an anti aging element
Alpha
lipoic acid has been recognized as a broad spectrum anti-
oxidant for its ability:
to act both in cell membranes including nuclear membrane
and interior of the cell
to regenerate main other antioxidants from their inactive or
radical forms including vitamin C, vitamin E and
glutathione. Since it recharges oxidized vitamins C and E
which are exogenous antioxidants, Alpha Lipoic Acid
counterbalance these vitamins during chronic and transient
deficiency
to neutralize free radicals through different mechanisms in
different organs (it also passes blood brain barrier)
to increase the level of glutathione (one of the major
endogenous antioxidants made within the cells) in the cell.
Level of glutathione decreases in all immune compromised
conditions and during stress. Thus it compensate for transient
depletions of glutathione during stress
to counteract the deteriorative effects of chronic
hyperglycemia by increasing glucose utilization. Elevated
glucose level triggers free radical reactions
to control the AGE products. AGEs, or advanced
glycosylated products may result in dysfunction of normal
proteins and decreased turnover and tissue remodeling
Metabolic
activity of Alpha Lipoic Acid
Alpha
Lipoic Acid also serves as a cofactor for a number of vital
enzymes responsible for the conversion of glucose, fatty acids
and other energy sources into chemical energy (ATP). Small
amount of Alpha Lipoic Acid are bound chemically (coenzyme)
at the active site of enzyme complexes, Alpha Lipoic Acid works
by becoming reduced and facilitates biological reactions from
which energy is harnessed. Lipoic acid has been recognized as a free radical scavenger that can influence oxidative damage and reduce inflammatory cytokines. This properties may be utilizied in treatment and prevention of acne scar and other forms of scarring and a damaged skin with changes in collagen and elastin fibers arrangements.
