(+)-Lipoic Acid Reduces Lipotoxicity and Regulates Mitochondrial Homeostasis and Energy Balance in an In Vitro Model of Liver Steatosis

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is characterized by the accumulation of lipids within hepatocytes, which compromises functionality following mitochondrial dysfunction and increased production reactive oxygen species (ROS). Lipoic acid one prosthetic groups pyruvate dehydrogenase complex also known for its ability to confer protection from oxidative damage because antioxidant properties. In this study, we aimed investigate effects lipoic on lipotoxicity dynamics in an vitro model steatosis. HepG2 cells were treated with palmitic oleic (1:2) induce steatosis, without 1 5 µM acid. Following treatments, cell proliferation lipid droplets evaluated. Mitochondrial functions assessed through evaluation membrane potential, MitoTracker Red staining, expression genes quality control, analysis energy metabolism HPLC Seahorse. We showed that treatment restored potential values comparable control cells, as well protected fragmentation PA:OA treatment. Furthermore, our data was able determine increase fusion a decrease fission genes, restore bioenergetics after conclusion, suggest reduces improves thus providing potentially valuable pharmacological tool NAFLD