PROTECTIVE ROLE OF α-LIPOIC ACID IN ATHEROSCLEROSIS AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES

alpha-lipoic add (alpha-LA) is a natural antioxidant found in food as a lipolysin. Both alpha-LA and its reduced form DHLA (dihydrolipoic add) inhibit the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reduce their harmful effects, as well as have the ability to chelate transition metal ions and regenerate other antioxidants. In addition to the antioxidant effect, they also have anti-inflammatory impact. Oxidative stress and inflammation play a key role in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. alpha-LA reduces the level of lipids in the blood, prevents oxidative modifications of the LDL molecule and inhibits the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. The nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kappa B) contributes to the development of atherosclerosis by activating pro-inflammatory genes, and alpha-LA inhibits the inflammatory response induced by NF-kappa B by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting the expression of adhesion molecules and the proliferation and migration of vascular smooth muscle cells. Also, alpha-LA supplementation can lower blood pressure. The paper reviews the researches on the role of alpha-LA in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases.