lipoic acid Chemically, dithio‐octanoic acid, a coenzyme (together with vitamin B1) in the metabolism of pyruvate and in the citric acid cycle. Although it is an essential growth factor for various micro‐organisms, there is no evidence that it is a human dietary requirement.

lipoic acid A vitamin of the vitamin B complex. It is one of the coenzymes involved in the decarboxylation of pyruvate by the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase. This reaction has to take place before carbohydrates can enter the Krebs cycle during aerobic respiration. Good sources of lipoic acid include liver and yeast.

lipoic acid (6-8-dithio-n-octanoic acid) A compound that functions as a coenzyme in the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvic acid to alpha-ketoglutaric acid and of the latter to succinic acid. It is sometimes classed as a vitamin as it is an essential requirement for some micro-organisms.

lipoic acid (6–8-dithio-n-octanoic acid) A compound that functions as a coenzyme in the oxidative decarboxylation of pyruvic acid to alpha-ketoglutaric acid and of the latter to succinic acid. It is sometimes classed as a vitamin as it is an essential requirement for some micro-organisms.