Alpha-lipoic acid ameliorates nab-paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy by inhibiting IL-17 signaling pathway

Hong Sun1, Yuxin Cai2, Ling Li1

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, Eye & ENT Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.

Frontiers in Immunology
|December 15, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Alpha-lipoic acid (LA) effectively treats paclitaxel-induced neuropathy by inhibiting the IL-17 signaling pathway. This study clarifies LA's neuroprotective mechanisms against chemotherapy side effects.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • The exact mechanisms of alpha-lipoic acid (LA) in alleviating paclitaxel (nab-PTX)-induced peripheral neuropathy are not fully understood.
  • Peripheral neuropathy is a significant side effect of nab-PTX chemotherapy, impacting patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the underlying mechanisms of LA's neuroprotective effects against nab-PTX-induced peripheral neuropathy.
  • To elucidate how LA mitigates chemotherapy-induced nerve damage.

Main Methods:

  • Established a rat model of nab-PTX-induced peripheral neuropathy.
  • Employed integrated network toxicology and network pharmacology approaches.
  • Conducted molecular docking and experimental validation of key signaling pathways.

Main Results:

  • LA demonstrated significant efficacy in alleviating nab-PTX-induced peripheral neuropathy.
  • Network analysis identified key pathways including AGE-RAGE, IL-17, and neurodegeneration pathways.
  • Experimental validation confirmed that LA inhibits the IL-17 signaling pathway, which is activated by nab-PTX.

Conclusions:

  • This study elucidates the neuroprotective mechanisms of LA against nab-PTX-induced peripheral neuropathy.
  • The findings highlight the critical role of the IL-17 signaling pathway in LA's therapeutic effect.
  • Integrated network and experimental approaches provide a comprehensive understanding of LA's action.