Alpha-Lipoic acid
Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) Manufacturer | Universal Antioxidant Headline: Premium Alpha-Lipoic Acid Manufacturer | The "Universal Antioxidant" (CAS: 1077-28-7) Sub-headline: 99%+ Purity (HPLC) | Solvent-Free Extraction | USP/EP Grade for Nutraceuticals & Cosmetics Unique Selling Proposition (USP): • Dual Solubility: Unique ability to function in both water and fat, protecting all cell parts. • Mitochondrial Energy: Critical cofactor for ATP production and glucose metabolism. • Clean Label: Non-irradiated, heavy metal controlled (<10ppm), and compliant with strict EU regulations.
Introduction

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (Thioctic Acid), CAS No. 1077-28-7, is a naturally occurring fatty acid containing sulfur. It is renowned as the "Universal Antioxidant" because, unlike Vitamin C (water-soluble) or Vitamin E (fat-soluble), ALA is soluble in both, allowing it to neutralize free radicals everywhere in the body—inside the cell, in the cell membrane, and in the intercellular fluid.
Our pharmaceutical-grade ALA is synthesized to meet USP/EP standards, ensuring high potency for dietary supplements focused on metabolic health, diabetic support, and anti-aging skincare.
Category:
Keywords:
antioxidant
universal
Functions
1.Metabolic Health & Glucose Control
• Mechanism: Enhances insulin sensitivity by activating the insulin signaling pathway.
• Action: Helps improve glucose uptake in muscles, making it a key ingredient for blood sugar management supplements (often paired with Chromium).
2.Antioxidant Recycling
• Mechanism: Potent redox potential.
• Action: Regenerates other antioxidants like Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Glutathione after they have been used, effectively extending the body's antioxidant defense capacity.
3.Neuroprotection
• Mechanism: Crosses the blood-brain barrier.
• Action: Protects nerve tissues from oxidative damage, showing promise in supporting nerve health (neuropathy) and cognitive function.

Applications
1.Dietary Supplements
• Application: Capsules for metabolic syndrome and diabetic neuropathy support.
• Why it works: Clinical evidence supports its role in reducing oxidative stress associated with high blood sugar.
2.Anti-Aging Cosmetics
• Application: Creams and serums.
• Why it works: Reduces inflammation and fights glycation (the process that damages collagen), helping to smooth fine lines and improve skin radiance.
3.Sports Nutrition
• Application: Recovery formulas.
• Why it works: Mimics insulin to drive nutrients (creatine/carbs) into muscle cells for better recovery and pumps.

Flow Chart
1.Reaction: Condensation of Adipic acid monoester with ethylene via Friedel-Crafts reaction (or alternative synthesis route).
2.Sulfurization: Introduction of sulfur atoms to form the dithiolane ring.
3.Hydrolysis: Conversion to crude Thioctic Acid.
4.Purification: Multiple recrystallization steps to remove solvents and impurities.
5.Drying: Vacuum drying at low temperature to prevent polymerization.
6.Milling: Size reduction to pass 40-60 mesh.
7.Sieving & Blending: Ensuring homogeneity.
8.Packaging: Double PE liners in light-resistant drums (sensitive to light).
Quality Standard of Lactoferrin
Product: Alpha-Lipoic Acid (USP Grade)
CAS: 1077-28-7
| Item | Specification | Result |
| Appearance | Light yellow crystalline powder | Conforms |
| Assay (HPLC) | 99.0% - 101.0% | 99.6% |
| Melting Point | 60.0°C - 62.0°C | 61.2°C |
| Loss on Drying | ≤ 0.2% | 0.08% |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤ 0.1% | 0.04% |
| Heavy Metals | ≤ 10 ppm | < 5 ppm |
| Single Impurity | ≤ 0.1% | Conforms |
| Residual Solvents | Meets USP Requirements | Conforms |
Method of Analysis of Lactoferrin
Test Method: HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography)
• Conditions: C18 Column, Mobile phase (Methanol/Water/Phosphoric Acid).
• Detection: UV at 215 nm.
• Purpose: Accurate quantification of the active ingredient and detection of polymer impurities (which can occur if stored improperly).
Reference Chromatogram of Lactoferrin Reference Substance
(Description)
A sharp, single peak at the retention time of Alpha-Lipoic Acid (approx. 8-10 mins depending on flow rate). No significant peaks should appear for 6,8-Epitrithiooctanoic acid (a common degradation product).
Stability and Safety
Stability Studies
• Heat/Light Sensitivity: ALA is sensitive to light and heat (melting point is low, ~60°C).
• Long-term Stability: Stored at cool conditions (below 25°C) away from light. Re-test interval is 24 months.
• Polymerization: Exposure to heat can cause it to polymerize into a rubbery insoluble mass. Strict temperature control during transport is required.
Safety & Handling (MSDS Summary)
• Classification: Non-hazardous for transport (unless kit packed).
• Handling: Irritating to eyes and skin. Do not inhale dust.
• Storage: Critical: Store in a cool, dark place. Drum must be kept tightly closed to avoid moisture-induced polymerization.
Customer Comments
Purchasing Manager, MetaHealth Solutions (USA)
2026.04.03
★★★★☆
QC Director, EuroPharma (Germany)
2026.04.03
★★★★☆
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FAQ
Is this R-Lipoic Acid or the Racemic mixture?
This product is the standard Alpha-Lipoic Acid (Racemic mixture of R+ and S-). We also supply pure R-Alpha Lipoic Acid (the biologically active form) upon request, which commands a higher price but offers higher bioavailability.
Does it have a smell?
Yes, pure ALA has a characteristic sulfurous smell. This is normal and indicates authenticity.
Can it be used in softgels?
Yes, but due to its low melting point and potential to polymerize, care must be taken during the fill manufacturing process to keep temperatures low.
References
1.Packer, L., et al. (1995). "Alpha-Lipoic acid as a biological antioxidant." Free Radical Biology and Medicine.
2.Ziegler, D., et al. (2006). "Alpha-lipoic acid in the treatment of diabetic polyneuropathy." Diabetes Care.
3.Shay, K.P., et al. (2009). "Alpha-lipoic acid as a dietary supplement: Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic potential." Biochimica et Biophysica Acta.
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