Alpha Ketoglutaric Acid
Also known as: Alpha-ketoglutaric acid, AKG, 2-oxoglutarate, α-Ketoglutarate
Overview
Alpha-ketoglutaric acid (AKG), also known as 2-oxoglutarate, is a crucial intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, essential for cellular energy metabolism. Naturally found in various foods, AKG plays significant roles in nitrogen and ammonia balance, epigenetic regulation, and immune function. It is used as a supplement for its potential benefits in energy metabolism, antioxidant effects, and support for muscle recovery and longevity. While extensively studied in animal models, human research is limited but growing. AKG influences the circulatory, digestive, and endocrine systems by promoting protein synthesis and reducing oxidative stress. Most evidence comes from animal studies; human studies are mostly observational or small-scale, highlighting the need for more robust human trials to validate its effects.
Benefits
In animal models, AKG has demonstrated improvements in reproductive health by modulating oxidative stress and enhancing oocyte quality. Human studies, though limited, suggest potential benefits such as a reduction in biological age as measured by DNA methylation. AKG may also support protein synthesis, muscle recovery, and potentially reduce age-related diseases. It may be particularly beneficial for older adults due to its effects on protein metabolism and bone density. However, the effect sizes in humans are not well-defined, and more research is needed to confirm these benefits and determine optimal usage.
How it works
AKG primarily functions within the TCA cycle, influencing energy metabolism, nitrogen balance, and epigenetic regulation. It acts as a precursor for glutamate and other amino acids, impacting various cellular processes. AKG influences the circulatory, digestive, and endocrine systems by promoting protein synthesis and reducing oxidative stress. It is absorbed in the small intestine, with plasma levels peaking approximately 60 minutes after oral intake. Its involvement in these fundamental pathways underscores its potential to affect overall metabolic health and cellular function.
Side effects
AKG is generally considered safe, but human data is limited. Common side effects are not well-documented in human studies, but potential gastrointestinal upset has been reported. Rare side effects are not well-documented. Caution is advised when using AKG with medications affecting nitrogen balance due to limited data on drug interactions. While there are no established contraindications, caution is advised in individuals with severe kidney or liver disease. Older adults may benefit from supplementation due to decreased natural levels, but careful monitoring is recommended to ensure safety and efficacy.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of AKG is not well-established for most benefits, but it is typically used in doses of 1-6 grams per day. For general health, a dosage of 1-3 grams per day is often used. The maximum safe dose is not well-defined, and high doses may cause gastrointestinal upset. It is best taken with meals to enhance absorption. Calcium-AKG (Ca-AKG) may be more stable and bioavailable. Absorption may decrease with age. While no specific cofactors are required, combining AKG with other amino acids may be beneficial.
FAQs
Is AKG safe?
AKG is generally considered safe, but there is limited human data available. Consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
How should I take AKG?
AKG is best taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal upset and enhance absorption. Follow the recommended dosage guidelines and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
What are the expected benefits of AKG?
AKG may offer potential benefits in energy, muscle recovery, and longevity, but more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans. Results may vary.
Is AKG a proven anti-aging supplement?
While AKG shows promising results in animal studies, it is not a proven anti-aging supplement in humans. More research is needed to validate these claims.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are not well-documented, but potential gastrointestinal upset has been reported. Monitor for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if they occur.
Research Sources
- https://rep.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/rep/168/5/REP-24-0137.xml – This scoping review examines the impact of alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) on reproductive health in animal models. The review highlights that AKG improves reproductive outcomes by modulating oxidative stress and enhancing oocyte quality. However, it notes the limited availability of human data, emphasizing the need for further research to confirm these findings in human populations.
- https://research.vu.nl/ws/portalfiles/portal/160079366/AlphaKetoglutarate_dietary_supplementation_to_improve_health_in_humans.pdf – This review assesses the potential of alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) supplementation to improve health in humans. It suggests that AKG may reduce biological age and improve protein metabolism, but it also points out the scarcity of recent human studies. The review underscores the necessity for more comprehensive human research to validate these potential benefits and establish optimal usage guidelines.
- https://www.spandidos-publications.com/10.3892/mmr.2022.12667/download – This review explores the potential clinical applications of alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG). It suggests that AKG may have roles in treating age-related diseases and improving metabolic health. However, the review primarily focuses on theoretical applications rather than empirical evidence from human trials, highlighting the need for specific human trial data to support these claims.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34952764/ – This study investigates the effects of Ca-AKG supplementation on skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function in older adults. The results suggest that Ca-AKG supplementation may improve muscle protein synthesis and reduce muscle protein breakdown, potentially leading to increased muscle mass and strength. The study highlights the potential benefits of Ca-AKG for maintaining muscle health in aging populations.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/1/137 – This study examines the impact of alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) on immune function and inflammatory responses. The findings indicate that AKG may modulate immune cell activity and reduce inflammation, suggesting potential benefits for individuals with immune-related disorders. The study emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand the mechanisms and clinical applications of AKG in immune regulation.
