DADA is formed by combining diisopropylamine with dichloroacetic acid. It is chemically related to pangamic acid (formerly known as "vitamin B₁₅"), which may convert to DADA and diisopropylamine in the body.[4]
Pharmacokinetic data from equine and human studies indicate that DADA is rapidly absorbed and metabolized to diisopropylamine (DIPA) and dichloroacetate (DCA), with delayed elimination following chronic dosing. It is well-tolerated in both species at therapeutic doses, although detailed human safety profiles remain limited.[6][7]
History
DADA was first identified in 1951 as a component of pangamic acid isolated from apricot seeds, and became available for clinical investigation in the 1960s for hepatoprotective properties. It was marketed in Japan under brand names such as Liverall [and Oxypangam?] for chronic liver disorders, including fatty liver and hepatitis.[2][1]
In the 1980s, researchers explored DADA's vasodilatory effects and metabolism to DIPA in equine and human subjects. A study published in 1988 monitored pharmacokinetics and behavioral outcomes in horses and noted agricultural and performance interests.[6]
More recently, the compound has gained scientific interest due to its metabolic regulatory mechanisms. A 2014 PLoS ONE study by Yamane et al. demonstrated its efficacy in treating severe influenza in mice via PDK4 inhibition.[1] Since then, DADA has attracted attention in oncology research for its tumor‑metabolism targeting capabilities and is currently under exploration for its synergistic potential in cancer therapy.[5]
Medical research and therapeutic use
Liver disease
DADA has been prescribed in Japan for over 50 years for the treatment of chronic liver ailments such as fatty liver and hepatitis.[2]
Influenza and metabolic disorders
In a 2014 study, DADA showed efficacy in reversing mitochondrial dysfunction in influenza-infected mice by inhibiting PDK4, leading to restored mitochondrial enzyme activity, ATP generation, and improved survival.[1]
Cancer research
In vitro research indicates that DADA may induce apoptosis in non-small cell lung cancer cells (e.g., A549), though such findings are preliminary and have not been validated in human trials.[8]
Veterinary and sports context
Equine usage
In the 1980s, DADA and its metabolite diisopropylamine (DIPA) were investigated in racehorses for possible performance-enhancing effects. Although no definitive athletic benefit was proven, the compound raised concerns due to its vasodilatory and oxygen-enhancing potential.[6]
Doping and bans
Diisopropylamine is listed by the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities as a banned vasodilator.[9] Tribunal documents from the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) have reported its covert use under the label of "vitamin B₁₅" with the intent of enhancing equine performance.[10]
Performance-enhancing potential
Although DADA may metabolize into diisopropylamine, which could theoretically improve oxygen delivery via vasodilation, there is no clinical evidence of performance enhancement in humans. Studies on its parent compound, dichloroacetate (DCA), suggest mild improvements in lactate clearance and oxygen uptake.[11] Trials in the 1980s using pangamic acid in humans and rodents did not show consistent or significant gains in endurance or performance.[12]
Safety and legal status
Safety concerns
The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers pangamic acid and its derivatives—including DADA—as unapproved and potentially unsafe dietary components. Several formulations have been banned or removed from the market as adulterants.[13]
Regulatory actions
Veterinary sporting bodies have issued suspensions and fines for the use of diisopropylamine derivatives. These substances remain listed on international banned-substance registers.[10]
↑ Gelernt, M. D.; Herbert, V. (1982). "Mutagenicity of diisopropylamine dichloroacetate, the "active constituent" of vitamin B15 (pangamic acid)". Nutrition and Cancer. 3 (3): 129–133. doi:10.1080/01635588109513714. ISSN0163-5581. PMID6752894.
1 2 3 Yang, J. M.; Woods, W. E.; Weckman, T. J.; Wood, T. W.; Chang, S. L.; Blake, J. W.; Tobin, T. (1988). "The detection, pharmacokinetics and behavioral effects of diisopropylamine dichloroacetate (DADA) in the horse: a preliminary report". General Pharmacology. 19 (5): 683–688. doi:10.1016/0306-3623(88)90129-2. ISSN0306-3623. PMID3215480.
This page is based on this Wikipedia article Text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 license; additional terms may apply. Images, videos and audio are available under their respective licenses.
