α-Lipoic acid is a cyclic disulfide antioxidant that interconverts with its reduced dithiol form. It is an essential cofactor for decarboxylation reactions of the citric acid cycle and acts as a general antioxidant. AN-7 is a more lipophilic analog of α-lipoic acid with enhanced potency and 1.5-fold increased maximal capacity to stimulate glucose transport into myocytes. This identifies the analogs of lipoic acid as potential new treatments for diabetes.
AN7973 blocks intracellular parasite development and inhibits Cryptosporidium growth. It is orally active, possesses favorable safety, stability, and PK parameters.