Sodium Succinate Dibasic Hexahydrate
Also known as: disodium succinate hexahydrate, disodium butanedioate hexahydrate, Sodium succinate hexahydrate, Sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate
Overview
Sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate is the hexahydrate salt form of succinic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid. Succinic acid is a crucial intermediate in the Krebs (TCA) cycle, a fundamental metabolic pathway responsible for energy production within cells. This compound is primarily utilized in scientific research as a buffer in cell culture media, a metabolic supplement to investigate mitochondrial function, and in various biochemical assays related to energy metabolism and protein crystallography. It presents as a white crystalline powder, is highly soluble in water, and exhibits chemical stability with low toxicity in laboratory settings. While its role as a biochemical reagent is well-established in cell biology and metabolic research, its application as a dietary or therapeutic supplement for human consumption is not well-characterized, with a notable absence of clinical trials. The available evidence is predominantly derived from preclinical and in vitro studies.
Benefits
Sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate primarily functions as a substrate in the Krebs cycle, which theoretically could enhance cellular energy metabolism. In vitro and in cell culture systems, it has shown potential to support mitochondrial function by replenishing succinate levels, thereby contributing to ATP production. Some preliminary studies suggest it might influence cellular ion transport and metabolism, potentially acting as an ionophore, though this mechanism requires further elucidation. However, it is crucial to note that there is no clinical evidence from human studies to support these potential benefits for specific populations or to quantify effect sizes and clinical significance. The time course of any potential benefits in humans also remains undefined due to the lack of human trials.
How it works
Sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate exerts its primary effects by entering the Krebs cycle as succinate. Within this cycle, succinate is converted to fumarate by the enzyme succinate dehydrogenase, a critical step that contributes to ATP production through oxidative phosphorylation. This process directly impacts cellular metabolism and mitochondrial energy pathways. The compound's known molecular target is the succinate dehydrogenase enzyme complex located in the mitochondria. While its role in cellular energy production is clear in biochemical contexts, detailed data on its oral absorption and bioavailability in humans are currently unavailable.
Side effects
Sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate is generally considered to have low toxicity and is safe for laboratory use. However, there is a significant lack of clinical safety data regarding its use in humans. Consequently, no common, uncommon, or rare side effects have been documented in clinical settings, as human trials are absent. Similarly, no drug interactions or contraindications have been established for human consumption. Specific considerations for special populations, such as pregnant women, children, or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, are also not available due to the absence of human research. Therefore, its safety profile for human supplementation remains largely uncharacterized, and caution is advised.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose, optimal dosage ranges, and maximum safe dose for human supplementation of sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate have not been established. Due to the lack of human clinical trials, there are no defined dosing guidelines or timing considerations for its use as a supplement. It is primarily used in its hydrated crystalline form in cell culture and biochemical research. Information regarding its absorption factors and any required cofactors for efficacy in humans is also unknown. Without clinical data, any recommendations for human dosage would be speculative and potentially unsafe.
FAQs
Is sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate safe for human consumption?
There is no clinical evidence to support the safety or efficacy of sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate for human consumption. It is primarily used in research settings as a biochemical reagent.
Can it improve energy metabolism in humans?
While it participates in cellular energy pathways in vitro, no human trials have confirmed metabolic benefits or improved energy metabolism in humans.
How is it used in research?
It is commonly used in research as a buffer and metabolic substrate in cell culture media and various biochemical assays to study mitochondrial function and energy metabolism.
Is it the same as succinic acid supplements?
No, it is a salt form of succinic acid but differs in its chemical composition and hydration state. While related, they are not identical in their properties or applications.
Research Sources
- https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Sodium-Succinate-Hexahydrate – This PubChem entry provides comprehensive chemical information for Sodium Succinate Hexahydrate, including its CAS number, chemical formula, and various names. It serves as a foundational reference for the compound's identity and basic properties.
- https://www.scbt.com/p/sodium-succinate-dibasic-hexahydrate-6106-21-4 – This source from Santa Cruz Biotechnology details the chemical properties and common applications of sodium succinate dibasic hexahydrate, emphasizing its use in laboratory settings. It reinforces the compound's role as a biochemical reagent.
- https://www.mpbio.com/tw/succinic-acid-disodium-hexahydrate – This source from MP Biomedicals describes succinic acid disodium hexahydrate, highlighting its involvement in the Krebs cycle and its utility as a metabolic intermediate in research. It underscores the compound's fundamental role in cellular energy production.