Lipoic Acid: Energy Production

Unique in its two-fold protective function, alpha-lipoic acid has drawn unprecedented interest for its role as a coenzyme in mitochondrial energy metabolism and as an antioxidant and cell redox modulator. This book covers discoveries in the chemistry, biological action, and significance of alpha-lipoic acid in energy production and health. Section I reviews the molecular structure, biosynthesis, and characterization of lipoic acid. Section II describes metabolic aspects, human pharmacodynamics, energy production, and antioxidant activity. Section III discusses clinical aspects, treatment of metabolic syndromes, and loss of mitochondrial function with lipoic acid supplementation.