Abstract: In various embodiments compositions and methods are provided for inducing or increasing weight loss or reducing or preventing weight gain in a mammal. In certain embodiments the methods comprise administering to the mammal a combination of at least two agents selected from the group consisting of lipoic acid and/or a lipoic acid analog, nicotinamide and/or a nicotinamide analog, thiamine and/or a thiamine analog, piperine and/or a piperine analog, pyridoxamine and/or a pyridoxamine analog. In certain embodiments the combination of agents provides a synergistic effect.

Abstract: In various embodiments compositions and methods are provided for ameliorating a pathology characterized by elevated ?-dicarbonyl compounds or prophylactically slowing or stopping the onset of said pathology in a mammal. In certain embodiments the method comprises administering to the mammal an agent that activates TRPA1 in an amount sufficient to activate TRPA1, and/or to ameliorate one or more symptoms of the pathology (e.g., diabetes or a complication thereof), and/or to slow or stop the onset of the pathology, and/or to lower the level of ?-dicarbonyl compounds in the mammal.