Humans have long sought ways to combat aging in the pursuit of longevity. A groundbreaking discovery—α-ketoglutarate is becoming increasingly known as a “longevity molecule.” It is a natural metabolite that not only provides energy for mitochondria but also repairs DNA, clears free radicals, and activates longevity genes such as FOXO and Sirtuins. It has the potential to completely change the way we perceive lifespan and vitality. This article explains what alpha-ketoglutarate is and its benefits.
What is Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG)?
Alpha Ketoglutarate（CAS 328-50-7）, commonly abbreviated as AKG, is a naturally occurring molecule in the human body that plays a crucial role in metabolism and energy production. Often called the “longevity molecule,” AKG is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, which is essential for cellular respiration. As a vital metabolite, it contributes to the generation of ATP, the primary energy source for cells.
AKG is widely recognized for its benefits beyond energy metabolism. It has gained attention for its potential anti-aging effects by helping reduce oxidative stress and promoting cellular health. Supplementing with AKG powder or alpha ketoglutarate supplements can support improved energy levels, enhance endurance, and contribute to healthy aging.
Chemical Properties
- Chemical formula: C5H6O5
- CAS Number: 328-50-7
- Molecular Weight: 146.10
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Melting point: 113.5°C
- Solubility: Soluble in water and alcohol
Alpha Ketoglutarate Powder Overview
Alpha ketoglutarate powder (C5H6O5) is a white crystalline substance known for its excellent water solubility, making it ideal for various applications. It is both a natural metabolite produced during the body’s metabolic processes and a widely used dietary supplement ingredient.
In the market, AKG bulk powder is primarily supplied by specialized CaAKG manufacturers to the health supplement and pharmaceutical industries. Its main applications include anti-aging supplements, general health products, and pharmaceutical raw materials. The favorable chemical properties and versatility of alpha ketoglutarate powder drive its demand in these sectors, supporting wellness and longevity solutions.
Role of Alpha Ketoglutarate in the Tricarboxylic Acid Cycle (TCA Cycle)
The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle, is a central metabolic pathway critical for energy metabolism in cells. Alpha ketoglutarate (AKG) serves as a key intermediate in this cycle, facilitating the conversion of nutrients into adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the primary energy currency of the cell.
Beyond its role in energy production, AKG acts as an important precursor in the synthesis of amino acids, vitamins, and organic acids, contributing to essential biochemical processes. Additionally, AKG’s involvement in these pathways links it closely to cellular energy regulation and aging processes. By supporting metabolic balance and reducing cellular stress, alpha ketoglutarate influences both energy efficiency and the mechanisms related to aging.
Anti-Aging Research on Alpha Ketoglutarate
Alpha ketoglutarate (CaAKG) has attracted significant scientific interest for its anti-aging potential, supported by multiple landmark studies. In 2014, a study published in Nature revealed that AKG extended the lifespan of nematodes by 50%, marking a breakthrough in longevity research. Following this, a 2019 study in Aging demonstrated that AKG modulates key aging-related pathways, such as AMPK and mTOR, in fruit flies.
In 2020, research published in Cell Metabolism showed that AKG supplementation in mice led to lifespan extension, reduced inflammation, and improved physiological health. Most notably, a 2021 human study in Aging found that AKG reduced DNA methylation age by an average of eight years, providing strong evidence of its anti-aging effects in humans.
Key Benefits of Alpha Ketoglutarate Powder
Mitochondrial Energy Support
AKG is a key intermediate in the TCA cycle, providing a direct substrate for mitochondria and maintaining efficient ATP production. By enhancing mitochondrial function, AKG helps delay cellular aging and increase basal metabolic rate, making it a core ingredient in sports nutrition and recovery products.
Longevity Pathway Activation
AKG has been shown to act as a signaling molecule with profound effects on cellular longevity pathways. It helps activate the Sirtuins and AMPK signaling pathways while inhibiting mTOR (a cell growth and aging accelerator), and indirectly supports DNA repair mechanisms, improving cellular health and extending lifespan.
Antioxidant & Free Radical Clearance
AKG is not only the center of nitrogen metabolism, but also participates in the clearance of free radicals through its unique structure and metabolic pathways. It can enhance the endogenous antioxidant enzyme activity of cells, such as the synthesis of glutathione (GSH), thereby protecting cells from oxidative stress damage, making it an ideal choice for skin beauty and environmental stress response products.
Autophagy & Cell Renewal
AKG promotes autophagy by regulating metabolic signaling. Autophagy is a crucial mechanism by which cells eliminate damaged or aging organelles and regenerate. This “cell cleansing” ability helps maintain the health and function of tissues and organs and is crucial for combating aging.
Metabolism Balance
AKG has outstanding performance in regulating systemic metabolism, with particular potential in blood sugar and lipid metabolism. It may help maintain healthy metabolic balance by improving insulin sensitivity and influencing fatty acid oxidation, making it suitable for the development of weight management and metabolic syndrome aids.
Cardiovascular Health
Due to its anti-inflammatory and endothelial-improving effects, AKG helps protect heart function and may prevent atherosclerosis by regulating lipid metabolism. This provides a new high-quality raw material option for the cardiovascular health supplement market.
Neuroprotection
AKG is involved in the metabolism of glutamate, a stable supply of which is crucial for maintaining energy and neurotransmitter balance in the brain. Research is exploring AKG’s potential to help slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Bone & Muscle Support
AKG supports muscle and bone through two mechanisms: first, it acts as a precursor to amino acids (such as proline) to promote protein synthesis and prevent muscle atrophy; second, it acts as a cofactor for collagen synthase, enhancing bone density and bone tissue regeneration. It is a popular ingredient in the sports recovery and elderly health markets.
Liver & Gut Health
As an ammonia scavenger, AKG reduces the liver’s detoxification burden. It is also one of the preferred energy substrates for intestinal cells (enterocytes), helping to repair intestinal barrier function and maintain a healthy intestinal microbial environment.
Immune Modulation & Anti-Tumor Potential
AKG affects the metabolism and function of immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages, exerting immunomodulatory effects. Furthermore, its role in regulating cell proliferation and apoptosis makes it a potential auxiliary nutrient in anti-tumor adjuvant therapy research.
Applications of Alpha Ketoglutarate in Supplements and Pharmaceuticals
Dietary Supplements & Health Products
Anti-Aging & Longevity: This is the hottest application in the market. Focusing on CaAKG in health products, this technology leverages scientific evidence that AKG regulates the mTOR and AMPK longevity pathways and improves DNA methylation age. This technology is being used to develop high-end supplements that delay biological aging and enhance healthspan.
Energy and Vitality Enhancement: AKG, as a key molecule in the TCA cycle, can improve the efficiency of cellular ATP production. Terminal products are often positioned as functional supplements that enhance daily vitality, improve chronic fatigue, and improve mental concentration.
Sports Nutrition
Accelerates Muscle Recovery and Growth: As a precursor to glutamine and arginine, AKG promotes protein synthesis and reduces muscle breakdown after exercise. This makes it a key ingredient in gainers and recovery formulas.
Pharmaceutical & Clinical Nutrition
Liver protection and detoxification: AKG is a detoxifier that removes excess ammonia from the body. In clinical nutrition, it is used to help improve nitrogen metabolism balance in patients with liver dysfunction.
Cardiovascular Support and Anti-Inflammation: AKG helps protect heart tissue and endothelial cell function. Its anti-inflammatory properties (e.g., reducing inflammatory factors in mouse models) make it a useful ingredient in cardiovascular health support formulas.
Renal support: In some clinical studies, AKG has been associated with improved amino acid metabolism in dialysis patients.
Skincare & Cosmeceuticals
Stimulates Collagen Synthesis: AKG is a key cofactor of the enzyme proline hydroxylase (P4H), directly involved in the maturation and stabilization of collagen. As an extension of AKG’s supplemental use, it can be used in oral cosmetics (internal cosmetics) and topical formulations to improve skin elasticity and reduce wrinkles.
Why Choose Runtai Chemical as Your Alpha Ketoglutarate(CAS 328-50-7)Supplier
With over 15 years of experience, Runtai Chemical is a reliable alpha ketoglutarate supplier and AKG manufacturer in China, specializing in B2B bulk raw materials. We ensure high-purity AKG powder with a purity of ≥99%, compliant with GMP and ISO standards, guaranteeing premium quality for your production needs.
Our packaging includes 25kg drums, optimized for global export logistics, ensuring timely and secure delivery worldwide. Runtai Chemical offers stable product supply, customized packaging options, and excellent customer service, including free samples to support your evaluation process.
Where to Buy Alpha Ketoglutarate Powder(CAS 328-50-7)?
Runtai Chemical offers alpha ketoglutarate powder in bulk, providing reliable solutions for businesses seeking high-quality raw materials. We support wholesale purchases with flexible minimum order quantities (MOQ) tailored to your needs.
Our pricing options include both CIF and FOB terms, allowing you to choose the most convenient and cost-effective shipping method. Typical packaging is 25kg per drum, designed for easy global export.
For inquiries or orders, please contact us via email, phone, or our online form. Our professional sales team is ready to assist with quotations, free sample requests, and customized service to ensure a smooth purchasing experience.
Conclusion
Alpha ketoglutarate (AKG) has proven its remarkable anti-aging potential, supported by scientific studies demonstrating lifespan extension, enhanced metabolic health, and cellular rejuvenation in organisms ranging from worms to humans. Its critical role in energy metabolism, DNA repair, and inflammation reduction makes AKG a valuable ingredient for longevity and healthspan improvement.
As a reliable bulk AKG powder supplier with over 15 years of experience, Runtai Chemical ensures high-purity products meeting GMP and ISO standards. We provide stable supply, flexible packaging, and excellent service, making us the trusted partner for your alpha ketoglutarate sourcing needs.
FAQs About Alpha Ketoglutarate (AKG)
Q1: What is alpha-ketoglutaric acid?
Alpha-ketoglutaric acid is a natural organic acid that plays a central role in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. It acts as an intermediate in energy metabolism, helping cells produce ATP. In supplement form, alpha ketoglutaric acid is often referred to as alpha ketoglutarate (AKG), and it is widely used for its potential anti-aging and health benefits.
Q2: What is the structure of alpha-ketoglutarate?
The alpha-ketoglutarate structure is based on a five-carbon dicarboxylic acid with a ketone functional group. Its molecular formula is C5H6O5, and it typically appears as a white crystalline powder. This structure allows it to participate in metabolic reactions such as amino acid synthesis, collagen production, and antioxidant activity.
Q3: Is alpha-ketoglutaric acid the same as alpha-ketoglutarate?
Yes, alpha-ketoglutaric acid and alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) refer to the same compound. The difference lies mainly in naming conventions—“acid” is often used in scientific contexts, while “alpha ketoglutarate” is more common in dietary supplement and pharmaceutical industries.
Q4: What is alpha-ketoglutaric acid used for?
Alpha-ketoglutaric acid is used in dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and clinical nutrition.
Q5: Where can I buy bulk alpha ketoglutarate powder?
Runtai Chemical is a reliable Chinese manufacturer and supplier of high-purity alpha-ketoglutarate powder. We provide bulk AKG for dietary supplements, pharmaceuticals, and functional foods, with competitive pricing and global shipping.
