Uric acid

Uric acid is an endogenous purine metabolite that also functions as a potent plasma antioxidant. It has demonstrated neuroprotective effects in models of Parkinson's disease by inhibiting oxidative damage and neuronal cell death, modulating neuroinflammation, and activating the Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway. Elevated levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia) are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, where it can cause pancreatic β-cell death and dysfunction through the NF-κB signaling pathway. In sickle cell disease, observational studies suggest a potentially protective range of uric acid levels on renal function.

Other names

uric acid7,9-dihydro-1H-purine-2,6,8(3H)-trione