Disodium 2-oxoglutarate dihydrate NEW

α-Ketoglutaric acid disodium salt (often abbreviated as AKG salt or 2-oxoglutarate disodium salt) is a stable, water-soluble salt form of α-ketoglutaric acid. This compound is fundamentally important because its parent molecule, α-ketoglutaric acid (AKG), is a critical intermediate in the Krebs cycle (also known as the citric acid cycle), the primary metabolic pathway that generates energy within the mitochondria of our cells.

The "disodium salt" designation means that the two acidic protons (COOH groups) of the α-ketoglutaric acid molecule have been replaced with sodium ions (Na⁺). This chemical modification is crucial for practical use because it results in a powder that is:

• Highly stable at room temperature.

  Easily soluble in water and biological buffers.

  Suitable for scientific research and formulation into dietary supplements.

Without this salification, pure α-ketoglutaric acid is less stable and more difficult to handle.

Key Functions and Importance

1. Central Role in Metabolism:
In the body, AKG is far more than just an energy metabolite. Its core functions include:

• Energy Production: In the Krebs cycle, it is decarboxylated to produce ATP, NADH, and FADH₂, which are the core energy currencies of the cell.

  Amino Acid Synthesis: It serves as a key precursor for the synthesis of the amino acids glutamate and glutamine, which are vital for protein building, nitrogen transport, and neurotransmitter function.

  Cellular Signaling: AKG is involved in various signaling pathways and can influence cell growth and differentiation.

  Epigenetic Regulation: It is a essential cofactor for enzymes that control gene expression, linking cellular metabolism directly to DNA function.

2. Primary Applications:

• Dietary Supplements: This is the most common commercial application. AKG salt is marketed for:

• Athletic Performance: Proposed to enhance endurance, reduce fatigue, and improve recovery by optimizing energy metabolism and potentially reducing ammonia accumulation during exercise.

  Health and Longevity: Emerging research, particularly from the field of epigenetics, suggests AKG may influence aging processes, making it a popular compound in "longevity" supplements.

• Cell Culture Media: In biotechnology, it is an essential component of cell culture media, providing a readily available metabolic fuel for growing cells in the laboratory.

  Biochemical Research: It is a fundamental reagent used to study cellular respiration, mitochondrial function, and amino acid metabolism in experimental settings.

Summary

In essence, α-ketoglutaric acid disodium salt is a practical and stable form of a central biological molecule. It provides the foundational benefits of AKG—driving energy production, supporting protein synthesis, and influencing cellular signaling—in a format suitable for consumption and scientific use. Its importance spans from fundamental cellular biochemistry to applied fields like sports nutrition and anti-aging research.