[Mechanisms and ways of regulation of lipoic acid penetration into biological structures].

Experimental evidence of the penetration of low doses (100--120 mkM) of lipoic acid (LA) into cells and mitochondria by means of transport systems, involving proteins was obtained. The functioning of those systems is regulated by hormones, is dependent of redox states, is disturbed in the presence of energy metabolism inhibitors and is stimulated by repeated injections of LA. The penetration of LA into erythrocytes is facilitated by a concentration gradient K+ and Na+ and the high activity of transport ATPases. In case of high (over 120 mkM) content of lipoate in the incubation medium, its penetration into the cells and mitochondria occurs largely due to ordinary diffusion. Such penetration of LA predominantly occurs also under conditions of transversely directed gravitational overloading (6g). The rate of LA penetration into the biological structures of the organism is regulated by complicated and efficient mechanisms, involving hormonal control of protein biosynthesis.