Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA), fatty acid and promising chelating agent for neurological ailments

Abstract

Alpha-lipoic acid, a sulphur-containing fatty acid, also known as thioctic acid, occurs as a coenzyme and component of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex in the mitochondria of almost all living things with a cell nucleus. As a natural substance, it is considered a safe, well tolerated chelating agent. Unlike the hydrophilic chelating agents DMSA, DMPS or EDTA, which are prescription items, not easily available in some countries, the lipophilic α-lipoic acid (ALA) is a natural substance and as such not regulated as strictly. It has the ability to pass the blood brain barrier (BBB) and can thus penetrate all areas of the nervous system. Consequently, current research investigates whether and to what extent oral administration influences the development of metal-based multiple sclerosis (MS) and M. Alzheimer. With our clinical research we could confirm ALAs metal-binding ability and the extend of urinary excretion for the metals Arsenic, Barium, Manganese, Mercury and Nickel following oral application. We established a treatment protocol, suitable for people of all ages and confirmed the safety of ALA, if given in moderate doses.