d-chiro-inositol

D-chiro-inositol is a naturally occurring stereoisomer of inositol, a cyclitol found in animal and plant cells. It is derived from myo-inositol through an insulin-dependent epimerization process. D-chiro-inositol acts primarily as an insulin sensitizer and plays a role in various signal transduction pathways, including those involving insulin and gonadotropins. Its mechanisms include enhancing insulin sensitivity, inhibiting aromatase transcription, and modulating the transdifferentiation between white adipose tissue and brown adipose tissue. These actions make it relevant for metabolic disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, dysmetabolism (including type 2 diabetes mellitus), hypoestrogenic/hyperandrogenic disorders, and potentially bone health[1][5][6][8]. D-chiro-inositol is most commonly used as a dietary supplement rather than a pharmaceutical drug.

Brand names

Caronositol

Other names

DCIinositol (D-chiro form)