Alpha-lipoic acid attenuates trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced ulcerative colitis

In conclusion, the present study showed that ALA effectively suppressed TNBS-induced UC possible through reducing apoptosis and oxidative stress. The inhibition of MAPK activation by ALA may account for its protective effects against TNBS-induced colon injury. These findings presented here also imply that ALA have therapeutic potential in the prevention of UC and represent a promising therapeutic strategy.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Actually that's not true Marauder. And they are not actually claiming anything along those lines.

These models (and there are a few now) are developed primarily to help study and learn about cytokine responses based on either TH1/TH2 (Innate or Adaptive) or combined immune responses. They are also designed to explore how both multiple and single genetic factors can influence the course of these reactions. Furthermore, they are designed to explore how certain chemicals and proteins (be they bacterial or synthetically or otherwise derived) can influence the course of the various reactions. At the same time they are also used to induce specific tissue changes that closely represent what is seen under the microscope when viewing human IBD affected tissues.

The results then translate to ideas and provide insight into potential underlying factors in the various IBD's and potential routes of addressing symptoms.

In this particular case, they are simply saying that ALA (Alpha Lipoic Acid) through anti-apoptosis, anti-oxidant actions seem to be effective at preventing damage caused by a TH1 (Innate) or cell-mediated immune cell response.

So in the case of a TH1 response (as in the study) where the characteristics of the response are things like ulceration and white blood cell infiltration, ALA (Alpha Lipoic Acid) seems to be protective in nature and this study demonstrates why.

As for UC - Both ulceration and white blood cell infiltration are obviously strong characteristics of the disease. Shedding light on potential ways to reduce both these lead to insights into possible candidates that could help those suffering from UC find some relief or reduce symptoms. Much like the Curcumin study I believe Old Mike posted was recently looked into for similar purposes. Those I don't recall which model in that one.

Post Edited (Canada Mark) : 3/6/2015 12:16:04 PM (GMT-7)