Alpha-lipoic acid protects liver healthα-Lipoic Acid Ameliorates Arsenic-Induced Lipid Disorders by Promoting Peroxisomal β-Oxidation and Reducing Lipophagy in Chicken Hepatocyte.
Study highlights LA's benefits
We explored the protective effects of alpha-lipoic acid (LA) against liver damage caused by arsenic, a well-known environmental toxin. In our examination, we uncovered the mechanisms through which arsenic harms the liver, including its ability to induce autophagy, apoptosis, and oxidative stress, as well as disrupt lipid metabolism.
Our findings revealed that arsenic negatively impacts liver function primarily by reducing the expression of SIRT1, damaging mitochondria, and impairing a process called peroxisomal β-oxidation. This disruption leads to an increase in lipid accumulation and enhances lipophagy, which is the body's way of breaking down fats. However, when we administered LA, we observed a marked improvement. LA appeared to counteract the damage inflicted by arsenic by boosting SIRT1 levels, improving mitochondrial function, and encouraging peroxisomal β-oxidation.
This study clearly illustrates the potential of alpha-lipoic acid as a protective agent against liver injury due to arsenic exposure. By promoting better lipid metabolism and reducing harmful fat buildup, LA could serve as a valuable option for those affected by liver diseases induced by environmental toxins.
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Alpha-lipoic acid improves liver healthEffect of alpha-lipoic acid and supplementation with a Mediterranean diet on metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis.
Moderate, due to combination treatment
We conducted a clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness of a special formulation combining alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) with a Mediterranean diet in improving liver health for individuals with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis (MASLD). In this study, patients were divided into two groups: one received the ALA and Mediterranean diet while the other was given a placebo along with the Mediterranean diet over a span of 24 weeks.
Throughout the trial, we carefully measured various health indicators and liver function. Our findings were promising; those who took the ALA alongside the Mediterranean diet showed significant reductions in visceral fat and waist circumference, translating to improvements in metabolic parameters. Notably, the controlled attenuation parameter, an indicator of liver fat, steadily decreased in this group, reinforcing the potential benefits of ALA in conjunction with a healthy diet.
While both groups reported mild side effects at similar rates, these did not overshadow the positive outcomes associated with ALA and the Mediterranean diet. Overall, our results emphasize the potential of this combination approach in enhancing liver health among individuals dealing with MASLD.
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