Other names for Threonic acid

L-Threonic Acid
Magnesium L-Threonate (when bound to magnesium)
Ascorbic Acid Metabolite

Synopsis of Threonic acid

Threonic acid is a sugar acid derived from the oxidative breakdown of ascorbic acid (vitamin C). Structurally, it is a four-carbon polyhydroxy acid, and it typically exists in the form of L-threonic acid in biological systems. It is not widely recognized as an essential nutrient on its own, but it plays a supporting role in vitamin C metabolism and has drawn attention for its potential to enhance mineral absorption—particularly magnesium and calcium—when used in supplement form as magnesium L-threonate or calcium threonate.

In nutritional and neuropharmacological science, the most notable application of threonic acid is its salt form, magnesium L-threonate, which has been studied for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and elevate magnesium levels in the cerebrospinal fluid. Increased brain magnesium has been associated with improved synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory in animal studies, prompting growing interest in its role in cognitive support and age-related neurological decline.

Threonic acid itself also demonstrates mild chelating properties, which may assist in mineral transport and bioavailability. Though research on pure threonic acid is limited, its physiological effects are most often studied through its role as a carrier in mineral complexes or as a secondary metabolite of vitamin C.

Historical Use:
Threonic acid was not identified or used in traditional herbal or medical systems, as it is a relatively modern discovery tied to vitamin C metabolism and organic chemistry. However, its origins in ascorbic acid link it indirectly to the long-standing use of vitamin C-rich plants in historical medicine. For centuries, herbalists and physicians used citrus fruits, rose hips, and other botanicals high in vitamin C to treat scurvy, infections, and fatigue. These treatments, though unaware of ascorbic acid or its breakdown products, inadvertently delivered threonic acid as part of the vitamin’s natural catabolism.

The formal identification of threonic acid occurred through 20th-century studies into vitamin C degradation and metabolism. Scientists tracking the stability and breakdown of ascorbic acid noted that threonic acid was one of its primary non-toxic end-products. Later, researchers began exploring its utility in supplement delivery systems, especially for minerals like magnesium that are notoriously difficult to absorb efficiently in the brain and nervous system.

Threonic acid is used for these health conditions

Memory and Brain Function (Scientific)

Threonic acid is used to support these body systems

Brain (Scientific)

Products containing Threonic acid

Pure Encapsulations Essential-C & Flavonoids
Pure Encapsulations Essential-C & Flavonoids