13,14-dihydroretinoic acid

Description

## 13,14-Dihydroretinoic Acid (13,14-DHRA)

13,14-Dihydroretinoic acid (13,14-DHRA) is a **metabolite of retinoic acid (RA)**, a crucial vitamin A derivative involved in various biological processes.

**Here's what makes it significant for research:**

* **Unique Biological Activity:** Unlike RA, 13,14-DHRA is not a classical retinoid receptor agonist. It exhibits distinct biological effects, independent of the retinoic acid receptor (RAR) and retinoid X receptor (RXR) pathways.
* **Potential Therapeutic Applications:** 13,14-DHRA has shown promise in various areas, including:
* **Cancer Treatment:** Studies suggest it may possess anti-cancer properties by inhibiting tumor cell growth and angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels).
* **Cardiovascular Health:** It has been linked to potential benefits in heart health, possibly by influencing lipid metabolism and reducing inflammation.
* **Skin Health:** Research indicates its role in regulating skin cell differentiation and promoting wound healing.
* **Neurological Disorders:** Preliminary studies suggest it may have neuroprotective effects, potentially relevant for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
* **Metabolic Regulation:** 13,14-DHRA has been implicated in regulating energy metabolism and influencing lipid profiles, potentially impacting obesity and related health conditions.
* **Insights into Retinoid Metabolism:** Studying 13,14-DHRA helps researchers understand the complex metabolic pathways of vitamin A and how these processes affect various biological functions.

**Challenges and Future Directions:**

* **Limited Knowledge:** Although promising, research on 13,14-DHRA is still relatively limited. Further investigations are needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action, optimal therapeutic doses, and potential side effects.
* **Pharmacokinetic Studies:** Developing effective delivery methods and exploring the pharmacokinetic properties of 13,14-DHRA are crucial for its potential clinical applications.

In conclusion, 13,14-dihydroretinoic acid is a unique and potentially valuable metabolite of retinoic acid with distinct biological activities. Ongoing research into its therapeutic potential and intricate mechanisms of action holds promise for diverse medical applications and a deeper understanding of vitamin A metabolism.

13,14-dihydroretinoic acid: structure in first source [Medical Subject Headings (MeSH), National Library of Medicine, extracted Dec-2023]