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Alpha-lipoic acid provides neuroprotection from ischemia-reperfusion injury of peripheral nerve.

Authors :
Mitsui Y
Schmelzer JD
Zollman PJ
Mitsui M
Tritschler HJ
Low PA
Source :
Journal of the neurological sciences [J Neurol Sci] 1999 Feb 01; Vol. 163 (1), pp. 11-6.
Publication Year :
1999

Abstract

Background: Reperfusion aggravates nerve ischemic fiber degeneration, likely by the generation of reduced oxygen species. We therefore evaluated if racemic alpha-lipoic acid (LA), a potent antioxidant, will protect peripheral nerve from reperfusion injury, using our established model of ischemia-reperfusion injury.<br />Methods: We used male SD rats, 300+/-5 g. Ischemia was produced by the ligature of each of the supplying arteries to the sciatic-tibial nerve of the right hind-limb for predetermined periods of time (either 3 or 5 h), followed by the release of the ligatures, resulting in reperfusion. LA was given intraperitoneally daily for 3 days for both pre- and post-surgery. Animals received either LA, 100 mg/kg/day, or the same volume of saline intraperitoneally. Clinical behavioral score and electrophysiology of motor and sensory nerves were obtained at 1 week after ischemia-reperfusion. After electrophysiological examination, the sciatic-tibial nerve was fixed in situ and embedded in epon. We evaluated for ischemic fiber degeneration (IFD) and edema, as we described previously.<br />Results: Distal sensory conduction (amplitude of sensory action potential and sensory conduction velocity (SCV) of digital nerve) was significantly improved in the 3-h ischemia group, treated with LA (P<0.05). LA also improved IFD of the mid tibial nerve (P=0.0522). LA failed to show favorable effects if the duration of ischemia was longer (5-h ischemia).<br />Conclusion: These results suggest that alpha-lipoic acid is efficacious for moderate ischemia-reperfusion, especially on distal sensory nerves.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
0022-510X
Volume :
163
Issue :
1
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Journal of the neurological sciences
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
10223404
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/s0022-510x(99)00017-9