Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle (citric acid cycle), which is central to mitochondrial energy metabolism. The mitochondria are responsible for producing ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell, and AKG plays a crucial role in this process by participating in the conversion of nutrients into usable cellular energy. Several preclinical studies in animals and cell models suggest that supplementation with AKG can improve mitochondrial function, reduce oxidative stress, and extend lifespan under certain conditions. For example, research in model organisms such as C. elegans and mice has shown that AKG supplementation can enhance mitochondrial efficiency and reduce age-related decline in mitochondrial function. In human studies, AKG has been used primarily as a supplement in sports nutrition, with some evidence suggesting improvements in exercise performance, which may be partly due to enhanced mitochondrial energy production. However, robust clinical trials in humans specifically assessing mitochondrial health as an endpoint are limited. Overall, while there is a strong biochemical rationale and supportive preclinical data for the role of AKG in mitochondrial support, human evidence remains preliminary. Therefore, use of AKG for mitochondrial support is grounded in scientific rationale and early-stage research, but high-quality clinical validation is still lacking.

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