alpha-ketoglutarate

Alpha-ketoglutarate is a naturally occurring compound in the body and a key intermediate in the citric acid (Krebs) cycle. It plays a central role in cellular energy production and metabolism. Alpha-ketoglutarate is involved in amino acid synthesis and nitrogen balance and acts as a precursor to glutamine. It also functions as an antioxidant and participates in various metabolic pathways that regulate carbon, nitrogen, ammonia levels, and reduce reactive oxygen species. Clinically and as a supplement, it has been used to support muscle protein synthesis (especially after trauma or surgery), improve kidney function (notably during hemodialysis), aid recovery from injury or surgery by preventing muscle breakdown, potentially enhance athletic performance by reducing ammonia toxicity during exercise (though evidence for this use is limited), support healthy aging/longevity based on preclinical studies showing lifespan extension in animals, improve skin barrier function when applied topically or taken orally due to effects on skin proteins like involucrin/filaggrin/serine palmitoyl transferase; it may also help manage liver disease-related hyperammonemia[1][4][5][6][8].

Brand names

Rejuvant

Other names

α-ketoglutaratealpha-ketoglutaric acid2-oxopentanedioic acidoxoglutaric acid2-oxoglutarate2-ketoglutaric acidpentanedioic acid 2-oxo-α-oxoglutarateketoglutarate