Journal article

Publication year: 2022

Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Volume number: 23

Issue number: 16

eISSN: 1422-0067

Open access status: Gold

DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23169186

Publisher: MDPI

Abstract: 
Introduction: Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a sulphur-containing organic compound, derived from octanoic acid, and an important cofactor for mitochondrial respiratory enzymes. It has strong antioxidant properties that improve mitochondrial function. We investigated if ALA improves mitochondrial dysfunction in a cellular model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: SH-SY5Y-APP(695) cells were used as a model for an early stage of AD. Vector-transfected SH-SY5Y-MOCK cells served as controls. Using these cells, we investigated mitochondrial respiration (OXPHOS), mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production, and citrate synthase activity (CS) in cells treated with ALA. Cells were treated for 24 h with different concentrations of ALA and with or without the complex I inhibitor rotenone. Results: Incubation with ALA showed a significant increase in ATP levels in both SH-SY5Y-APP(695) and SH-SY5Y-MOCK cells. MMP levels were elevated in SH-SY5Y-MOCK cells, treatment with rotenone showed a reduction in MMP, which could be partly alleviated after incubation with ALA in SH-SY5Y-MOCK cells. ALA treatment showed significant differences in respiration chain complex activities in SH-SY5Y-MOCK cells. Citrate synthase activity was unaffected. ROS levels were significantly lower in both cell lines treated with ALA. Conclusions: ALA increased the activity of the different complexes of the respiratory chain, and consequently enhanced the MMP, leading to increased ATP levels indicating improved mitochondrial function. ALA only marginally protects from additional rotenone-induced mitochondrial stress.

Harvard Citation style: Dieter, F., Esselun, C. and Eckert, G. (2022) Redox Active α-Lipoic Acid Differentially Improves Mitochondrial Dysfunction in a Cellular Model of Alzheimer and Its Control Cells, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 23(16), Article 9186. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23169186

APA Citation style: Dieter, F., Esselun, C., & Eckert, G. (2022). Redox Active α-Lipoic Acid Differentially Improves Mitochondrial Dysfunction in a Cellular Model of Alzheimer and Its Control Cells. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 23(16), Article 9186. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms23169186