Synergistic Neuroprotective Potential of Hyaluronic Acid and Alpha-Lipoic Acid in a Spinal Neuronal Injury Model
Seoyeon Bae
Wilbraham & Monsoon Academy, Wilbraham, USA
Publication date: July 10, 2026
Wilbraham & Monsoon Academy, Wilbraham, USA
Publication date: July 10, 2026
DOI: http://doi.org/10.34614/JIYRC2026I22
ABSTRACT
Spinal cord injury often causes irreversible functional damage because spinal neurons have limited regenerative capacity and are highly vulnerable to extracellular disruption and oxidative stress. This study evaluated the dose-dependent effects of hyaluronic acid (HA) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), individually and in combination, on the viability of spinal neuronal cells. Neuronal-like cells were treated with HA or ALA at 0–200 µM, and viability and morphology were assessed. HA showed a biphasic response, with maximal viability at 100 µM, while ALA showed its strongest supportive effect at 50 µM. At higher concentrations, both compounds reduced viability and induced morphological signs of cellular stress. Co-treatment with HA 100 µM and ALA 50 µM produced the highest relative viability, reaching approximately 120% of control and exceeding that of either single treatment. These findings suggest that moderate HA and ALA concentrations may act in complementary ways to support neuronal survival and indicate a potential for combined extracellular and antioxidant strategies in spinal neuronal recovery.
Spinal cord injury often causes irreversible functional damage because spinal neurons have limited regenerative capacity and are highly vulnerable to extracellular disruption and oxidative stress. This study evaluated the dose-dependent effects of hyaluronic acid (HA) and alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), individually and in combination, on the viability of spinal neuronal cells. Neuronal-like cells were treated with HA or ALA at 0–200 µM, and viability and morphology were assessed. HA showed a biphasic response, with maximal viability at 100 µM, while ALA showed its strongest supportive effect at 50 µM. At higher concentrations, both compounds reduced viability and induced morphological signs of cellular stress. Co-treatment with HA 100 µM and ALA 50 µM produced the highest relative viability, reaching approximately 120% of control and exceeding that of either single treatment. These findings suggest that moderate HA and ALA concentrations may act in complementary ways to support neuronal survival and indicate a potential for combined extracellular and antioxidant strategies in spinal neuronal recovery.
