Nucleotide & Cofactor · Other

Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG)

Provisional Moderate Scorenucleotide

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Alpha-ketoglutarate is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle that facilitates cellular energy production through ATP synthesis. It enhances nitrogen metabolism by serving as an amino acid precursor and ammonia detoxification agent in muscle and liver tissues.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryNucleotide & Cofactor

GroupOther

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordalpha-ketoglutarate benefits

Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports energy production through the Krebs cycle, enhancing ATP synthesis for sustained energy. This is essential for maintaining endurance and vitality. - Enhances nitrogen metabolism, promoting efficient amino acid utilization and muscle growth. This supports athletic performance and recovery. - Acts as a precursor to glutamate, a neurotransmitter vital for cognitive function and memory. This can enhance learning and mental acuity. - Participates in the detoxification of ammonia, reducing its toxicity and supporting liver health. This ensures efficient waste elimination and metabolic balance. - Supports collagen synthesis, promoting skin elasticity and joint health. This contributes to youthful skin and flexible joints. - Enhances the production of red blood cells, improving oxygen delivery to tissues. This boosts athletic performance and reduces fatigue. - Supports the regulation of blood sugar levels, aiding in metabolic health. This is crucial for maintaining energy balance and preventing metabolic disorders.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) is a key metabolic intermediate in the Krebs cycle. It is synthesized from isocitrate and plays a crucial role in energy production and amino acid metabolism.

“AKG was discovered as a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, contributing to our understanding of cellular respiration and energy production.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

AKG has been studied in both animal and human trials, focusing on its role in energy metabolism and aging. Research suggests potential benefits in enhancing longevity and metabolic health.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Synthesized in the Krebs cycle. - Involved in amino acid and nitrogen metabolism. - Functions as a precursor for glutamate synthesis.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Alpha-ketoglutarate functions as a critical substrate in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, where it is converted to succinyl-CoA by alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, generating NADH for ATP production. It serves as a carbon skeleton for glutamate and glutamine synthesis via glutamate dehydrogenase and aminotransferases. AKG also activates mTOR signaling pathways, promoting protein synthesis and cellular growth while facilitating ammonia detoxification through glutamine formation.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Human studies on alpha-ketoglutarate supplementation show mixed results for performance enhancement. A 2014 study of 20 resistance-trained men found 1g daily AKG improved peak power output by 3-5% compared to placebo. However, a larger 2019 trial with 42 athletes showed no significant improvements in VO2 max or endurance performance with 2g daily doses over 8 weeks. Most research focuses on wound healing and aging, with limited high-quality data specifically for athletic performance benefits.

Also Known As

2-Oxoglutaric acid2-Ketoglutaric acidAKG2-Oxopentanedioic acidα-Ketoglutaric acidOxoglutarate2-Oxoglutarate

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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