(R)-alpha-Lipoic Acid TCI L0207

TCI L0207 (R)-alpha-Lipoic Acid is the single-enantiomer form of lipoic acid, a cyclic sulfur compound that occurs naturally as an essential cofactor in the enzyme complexes of energy metabolism, including pyruvate dehydrogenase. Unlike a racemic mixture, this preparation presents the R configuration, which is the biologically active form of the molecule. In the laboratory, the compound is used both as a chiral building block for asymmetric synthesis and as a test substance in biochemical research examining redox processes inside the cell, where defined stereochemistry is a requirement rather than a convenience.

The principal advantage of this material lies in its dithiolane group, a five-membered ring containing two sulfur atoms, which can convert reversibly between its oxidised and reduced forms. This reversible redox behaviour is precisely what has made lipoic acid known as an antioxidant capable of acting in both aqueous and lipid environments. In addition, the molecule carries a carboxylic acid group at the end of its chain, so it is readily conjugated into esters or amides for further synthetic work. High enantiomeric purity matters here because the R and S forms do not display identical biological behaviour.

In Indonesian laboratories, this compound is typically encountered in university and institutional research groups working on asymmetric synthesis, natural product chemistry, and cellular biochemistry. Because the compound is sensitive to light and heat, it is normally handled in facilities that can provide controlled storage and protected working conditions. It is usually weighed out in small portions for synthesis or assay work rather than kept in open bulk containers on the bench.

• Chiral building block in asymmetric synthesis, where the defined R configuration and the reactive carboxylic acid terminus allow controlled elaboration into stereochemically pure target molecules.
• Redox biochemistry research, since the dithiolane ring converts reversibly between oxidised and reduced states and therefore serves as a well-characterised probe of cellular redox processes.
• Antioxidant studies in mixed media, because lipoic acid is active in both aqueous and lipid environments and suits experiments that span the two phases.
• Enzyme cofactor investigations relating to energy metabolism, including work on pyruvate dehydrogenase and the other complexes in which lipoic acid naturally participates.
• Preparation of esters and amides for downstream synthesis, using the terminal carboxylic acid group as a straightforward handle for conjugation to other molecular fragments.

• Product code: L0207

Store the container protected from light and away from sources of heat, in a cool location consistent with the supplier's stated conditions for this item. Amber glass or an opaque secondary container is appropriate, and the vessel should be kept tightly closed to limit exposure to air and moisture. Handle the material in a well-ventilated area or fume hood, wearing gloves, safety glasses, and a laboratory coat. Use clean, dry spatulas when weighing, return the container to storage promptly after use, and consult the manufacturer's safety data sheet before first handling.

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