Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) has gained attention in recent years as a dietary supplement purported to support healthy aging and extend lifespan. Scientific interest in AKG stems primarily from preclinical studies, particularly in model organisms such as worms (C. elegans) and mice. One widely cited study (Asadi Shahmirzadi et al., 2020, Cell Metabolism) found that supplementation of calcium-AKG extended both lifespan and healthspan in aging mice, reducing frailty and chronic inflammation. The proposed mechanisms include AKG’s role as a key intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, influencing cellular energy metabolism, and its capacity to modulate epigenetic regulation and reduce age-related inflammation.

However, while these findings are promising, there is a lack of robust clinical data in humans. Most human studies to date focus on AKG’s role in muscle metabolism or kidney function, not explicitly on aging. Thus, the evidence base for its use in aging prevention in humans is preliminary and largely extrapolated from animal models. The scientific community considers AKG a plausible candidate for further research, but its efficacy and safety in humans for aging prevention remain unproven. The evidence rating is set at 2 to reflect promising preclinical data but insufficient human validation.

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Nature's Sunshine Cellular Energy