AKG is a compound called a carboxylated keto acid. It is produced in the body naturally and is used in the Krebs cycle, a sequence of intracellular reactions that creates energy in the form of ATP. AKG is also important for several other metabolic and cellular processes. AKG helps maintain nitrogen balance within the body, is a precursor to several amino acids, is a source of energy for cells, and functions as an antioxidant. It is used to produce glutamine. Glutamine is an amino acid that is useful for muscle protein synthesis and for several important functions within the immune system.[1][2]
What is alpha-ketoglutarate?
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•Last Updated: May 16, 2025
Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is a naturally occurring carboxylated keto acid that plays a crucial role in the Krebs cycle for energy production and is involved in various metabolic processes, including maintaining nitrogen balance and serving as a precursor for amino acids like glutamine. Additionally, AKG functions as an antioxidant and supports muscle protein synthesis and immune system functions.