D-beta-hydroxybutyrate ketone monoester

D-beta-hydroxybutyrate (D-βHB) ketone monoester is a small molecule metabolic supplement and exogenous ketone source being developed and studied by Stony Brook University. It is designed to counteract brain aging and cognitive decline by providing an alternative fuel source to glucose. In conditions of insulin resistance or glucose hypometabolism, the brain's primary energy source is compromised; D-βHB bypasses this by entering neurons through the monocarboxylate transporter 2 (MCT2), which is insulin-independent, unlike the GLUT4 glucose transporter. This metabolic intervention aims to stabilize brain networks and maintain cognitive function in aging populations. It is currently being evaluated in clinical trials (e.g., NCT04106882) using neuroimaging techniques like fMRI and MR/PET to observe changes in brain connectivity and neurotransmitter production.

Other names

D-beta-hydroxybutyrateD-beta-HBketone monoesterexogenous ketones