AKG and Bone Health

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is an essential intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. It has a number of important physiological functions, including the oxidation of fatty acids, amino acids, and glucose. In recent years, AKG has also been shown to have a number of beneficial effects on bone health.

Studies have shown that AKG can increase bone mass, reduce bone loss, and accelerate bone regeneration. It can also improve the function of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are responsible for the formation of new bone tissue.

The mechanisms by which AKG exerts these effects are not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the modulation of a number of signaling pathways, including the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, the transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) pathway, and the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway.

AKG is a safe and well-tolerated compound. It has been shown to be effective in animal models of osteoporosis and other bone diseases. In clinical trials, AKG has been shown to improve bone mineral density and reduce the risk of fractures.

Based on the available evidence, AKG is a promising new therapy for bone health. It has the potential to prevent and treat a variety of bone diseases, including osteoporosis, osteopenia, and fracture healing disorders.

References:

• Alpha-ketoglutarate ameliorates age-related osteoporosis via regulating histone methylations: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33154378/
• Alpha-ketoglutarate promotes alveolar bone regeneration by modulating M2 macrophage polarization: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10064115/
• Alpha-ketoglutarate treatment early in postnatal life improves bone density in lambs at slaughter: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15207758/
• The Physiological Basis and Nutritional Function of Alpha-Ketoglutarate: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26122777/
• Alpha-Ketoglutarate: Physiological Functions and Applications: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4703346/