Diisopropylamine dichloroacetate (DADA) - 50g

SPECIFICATIONS

Product Code: DPD050P

Molecular Formula: C8H17Cl2NO2

Molecular Weight: 230,13 g/mol

CAS: 660-27-5

Purity: Technical / Research Grade ≥99%

Form: Solid powder

Color: White

Storage Temperature: 2-8°C

Source: Synthetic

Safety Classification: Standard handling

DESCRIPTION

Diisopropylamine Dichloroacetate (DADA) is a chemical compound derived from the association of dichloroacetate (DCA) with diisopropylamine. This combination gives the compound distinctive characteristics in terms of solubility, bioavailability, and metabolic behavior compared to dichloroacetate alone.

Historically, DADA has been used in several contexts, particularly as a support compound for liver function, and has also been associated with the so-called “Vitamin B15” or pangamic acid, although this classification is not officially recognized in modern scientific literature.

Over time, the compound has attracted growing research interest due to its role in cellular metabolism, mitochondrial energy regulation, and cellular adaptation to metabolic stress.

General Characteristics

DADA stands out for its ability to interact with major cellular metabolic systems. The dichloroacetate portion is responsible for the core biological activity, while the diisopropylamine component may influence the pharmacokinetic properties and distribution profile of the compound.

This combination has led to the investigation of DADA as a molecule with potentially stronger effects than DCA alone in certain experimental models.

Liver Support and Hepatoprotective Interest

One of the best-known historical uses of DADA relates to liver support. The compound has been used for decades, especially in some Asian countries, as part of supportive approaches for several liver-related conditions.

In the context of fatty liver, DADA has been associated with improved lipid metabolism at the hepatocyte level. This may help reduce lipid accumulation within liver tissue and support healthier cellular function.

In chronic hepatitis settings, the compound has been used as a supportive agent to help improve certain functional liver parameters. Clinical observations and experimental reports have described reductions in liver-related markers such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), along with effects on total cholesterol and triglycerides.

These findings are consistent with modulation of hepatic cellular metabolism and with a possible improvement in the energetic efficiency of liver cells.

Improvement of Cellular Energy Metabolism

One of the most relevant aspects of DADA is its effect on cellular energy metabolism.

The compound is associated with inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase (PDK), an enzyme that negatively regulates the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDH). By inhibiting PDK, DADA promotes activation of PDH.

This step is crucial because it allows pyruvate, derived from glucose, to enter the Krebs cycle within the mitochondria rather than being converted into lactic acid in the cytosol.

The overall result is a metabolic shift from glycolysis toward oxidative phosphorylation, meaning a more efficient mitochondrial energy production pathway.

In experimental models, this mechanism has been associated with:

- increased ATP production
- improved mitochondrial function
- reduced lactate accumulation
- greater cellular energy efficiency

These effects are particularly relevant in conditions characterized by metabolic stress or impaired mitochondrial activity.

Anti-Tumor Properties (Preclinical Research)

In recent years, DADA has attracted growing interest in experimental oncology research, particularly for its possible role in modulating tumor cell metabolism.

Many experimental models indicate that cancer cells rely predominantly on glycolysis for energy production even in the presence of oxygen. This phenomenon is known as the Warburg effect.

Because DADA acts on cellular metabolism, it has been investigated for its ability to counter this metabolic pattern by promoting a shift back toward mitochondrial respiration.

In preclinical studies, including breast cancer models, DADA has been evaluated for its effects on:

- cellular proliferation
- glucose metabolism
- lactic acid production
- tumor growth

In these settings, DADA showed, under certain experimental conditions, stronger activity than dichloroacetate (DCA).

Reported observations included:

- reduced glucose uptake by tumor cells
- lower lactate production
- modulation of the tumor metabolic microenvironment
- reduction of markers associated with cellular proliferation

These findings have contributed to positioning DADA as a compound of interest in research focused on metabolism-based approaches to tumor growth control.

Autophagy and Cellular Response

Another relevant mechanism studied in relation to DADA is autophagy.

Autophagy is a cellular process through which cells degrade and recycle damaged or unnecessary components. This process can have both protective and destructive roles depending on the biological context.

Experimental studies suggest that DADA may influence autophagy in a dynamic manner:

- in early phases it may promote activation of autophagy
- in later phases it may contribute to dysregulation of the autophagic process

Under certain conditions, this alteration may lead to reduced cellular viability.

Within tumor-related models, this behavior has been interpreted as one of the possible mechanisms through which DADA may influence cell survival.

Effects on Glucose and Lactate

DADA has been studied for its direct impact on two key parameters of cellular metabolism:

- glucose consumption
- lactic acid production

In several experimental models, treatment with DADA showed:

- reduction in glucose consumption
- reduction in lactate production
- normalization of cellular energy metabolism

These effects are consistent with its mechanism of action at the PDH level and represent one of the most studied aspects of the compound.

Other Potential Effects

In addition to its metabolic and liver-related effects, DADA has also been explored in other experimental contexts.

In severe infection models, the compound has been associated with improved systemic response, likely through restoration of organ energy metabolism and modulation of inflammatory signaling.

It has also been hypothesized to influence the so-called cytokine storm, with a potential role in reducing excessive inflammatory responses.

The diisopropylamine component has additionally been associated with vasodilatory properties, which may influence blood circulation and nutrient delivery.

Research Profile

DADA is now considered a compound of multidisciplinary interest and has been investigated in areas such as:

- cellular metabolism
- mitochondrial function
- hepatology
- bioenergetics
- experimental oncology
- response to metabolic stress

Its ability to influence fundamental processes such as energy production, glucose utilization, and autophagy makes it particularly relevant for modern biochemical research.

Conclusion

Diisopropylamine Dichloroacetate (DADA) is a compound with a complex and multifaceted profile, characterized by effects on energy metabolism, mitochondrial function, and several fundamental cellular processes.

Historically used as a liver-supportive compound, it is now the subject of growing research interest, particularly for its potential role in modulating cellular metabolism and in experimental models of tumor growth.

Available evidence, primarily preclinical in nature, suggests that DADA may influence several aspects of cellular physiology, making it a relevant compound for advanced biochemical and metabolic research.

REFERENCES

V. Ruggieri et al., "Dichloroacetate, a selective mitochondria-targeting drug for oral squamous cell carcinoma: a metabolic perspective of treatment" [Oncotarget]

V. Ruggieri et al., "Dichloroacetate, a selective mitochondria-targeting drug for oral squamous cell carcinoma: a metabolic perspective of treatment" [Oncotarget]

X. Zhang et al., "Dichloroacetate as a novel pharmaceutical treatment for cancer-related fatigue in melanoma" [American Journal og Physiology]

M. Wei at al., "The antitumor effect of diisopropylamine dichloroacetate on non-small cell lung cancer and its influence on the tumor immune microenvironment" [PubMed]

K. Yamane et al., "Diisopropylamine dichloroacetate, a novel pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 inhibitor, as a potential therapeutic agent for metabolic disorders and multiorgan failure in severe influenza" [PubMed]

L.G. Lu et al., "[Diisopropylamine dichloroacetate in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a multicenter random double-blind controlled trial]" [PubMed]

N. Kitamura et al.,m "Effects of diisopropylamine dichloroacetate on proliferation and differentiation of normal human keratinocytes in vitro" [PubMed]

G. Dong et al., "Diisopropylamine dichloroacetate enhances radiosensitization in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by increasing mitochondria-derived reactive oxygen species levels" [PubMed]

L. Su et al., "Superior anti-tumor efficacy of diisopropylamine dichloroacetate compared with dichloroacetate in a subcutaneous transplantation breast tumor model" [PubMed]

J.R. Wilson et al., "Effect of dichloroacetate on the exercise performance of patients with heart failure" [PubMed]

T. Tataranni et al., "Dichloroacetate (DCA) and Cancer: An Overview towards Clinical Applications" [PMC]

DISCLAIMER

This product is intendend for lab research and development use only. These studies are performed outside of the body. This product is not medicines or drugs and has not been approved by the FDA or EMA to prevent, treat or cure any medical condition, ailment or disease. Bodily introduction of any kind into humans or animals is strictly forbidden by law. This product should only be handled by licensed, qualified professionals.

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