Sodium dichloroacetate (DCA)

Sodium Dichloroacetate (DCA) – High-Purity Substance, at least 99% (50 g)

Sodium dichloroacetate, abbreviated as DCA, is the sodium salt of dichloroacetic acid. The compound has been the subject of biochemical and medical research for decades, particularly in connection with the energy metabolism of cells and the function of mitochondria.

The product contains 50 g of high-purity sodium dichloroacetate without added fillers.

Purity: at least 99% according to product specification
Content: 50 g
CAS number: 2156-56-1
Empirical formula: C₂HCl₂NaO₂
Molecular weight: 150.92 g/mol

Composition and Quality

• Sodium dichloroacetate, at least 99%
• No added fillers
• No colorants or flavorings
• High-purity powdered substance
• Packaged in a tightly sealed container

Since sodium dichloroacetate is hygroscopic, the packaging should be immediately resealed after each removal.

Scientific Background

The focus of DCA research is cellular energy metabolism. Sodium dichloroacetate is known as an inhibitor of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase, or PDK for short.

By inhibiting this enzyme, the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex can be influenced. This mechanism is important for the scientific investigation of the transition between glycolysis and mitochondrial energy production.

Mitochondria and Cell Metabolism

Mitochondria play a central role in the energy production of cells. DCA is investigated in laboratory and clinical research contexts with regard to the following processes, among others:

• Pyruvate and glucose metabolism
• mitochondrial energy production
• formation and breakdown of lactate
• regulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase
• cellular signaling pathways
• programmed cell death, also known as apoptosis

Warburg Effect

Another research focus is the so-called Warburg effect. This describes an altered energy metabolism of certain cells, in which glycolysis is increasingly used despite the presence of oxygen.

In experimental research models, it is investigated whether influencing PDK activity can change mitochondrial metabolism and apoptotic signaling pathways. However, these laboratory findings do not mean that DCA is an approved treatment for cancer. PubChem describes DCA as a PDK inhibitor with potential antineoplastic activity, but this refers to a research subject and not an approved cancer therapy.

Research Context and Areas Investigated

Sodium dichloroacetate has been investigated in various scientific contexts since the 1970s. These include:

• Disorders of pyruvate and lactate metabolism
• mitochondrial dysfunction
• lactic acidosis
• cellular oxygen and energy metabolism
• neurological and metabolic research models
• experimental research on atypical cell changes
• pharmacological investigation of PDK inhibition

DCA is also being investigated in experimental oncological studies. However, the existing research results do not justify general effectiveness or independent use in glioblastomas, carcinomas, lymphomas, or other tumor diseases.

Usage

This product is offered as a high-purity chemical substance.

Handling must only be carried out in accordance with the product specification, the safety data sheet, and the intended professional use.

Do not use internally without professional supervision. No medical dosage is deliberately given on this product page.

Notes and Restrictions

This product is not an approved medicinal product for the treatment of cancer or other diseases.

Not intended for self-medication.

Avoid contact with eyes, skin, and respiratory tract. Sodium dichloroacetate can irritate skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Observe appropriate protective measures when handling.

Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Keep away from children and pets.

Persons with neurological complaints, liver or kidney diseases should not consider independent contact with medical application.

For experimental, diagnostic, or therapeutic applications, a professional evaluation and compliance with the applicable regulations are required.

Store dry, cool, and tightly sealed. Protect from moisture and direct light.