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Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG): A Potential Strategy to Reduce IGF-1 Levels and Improve Healthspan

High levels of IGF-1 in adulthood are associated with increased risks of diseases like certain cancers (e.g., breast, prostate) and metabolic disorders. Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) can help reduce IGF-1 levels.


Metabolism, aging, and a compound called alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) are related to health span and lifespan.
National Library of Medicine

The linked article, "Alpha-Ketoglutarate, an Endogenous Metabolite, Extends Lifespan and Compresses Morbidity in Aging Mice" by Asadi Shahmirzadi et al. was published September 1, 2020 by the National Library of Medicine, National Center for Biotechnology Information. It discusses how metabolism, aging, and a compound called alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) are related to health span and lifespan of mice.


Here are the key points:

  1. Metabolism and aging: Metabolism refers to the body's chemical processes that keep it alive while aging is the gradual decline in bodily functions over time. The passage suggests that metabolism and aging are closely connected, meaning changes in metabolism can affect the aging process.

  2. Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG): AKG is an important compound involved in the body's energy production and essential molecule synthesis. It is influenced by factors like fasting, exercise, and aging.

  3. Effects of AKG on healthspan and lifespan: The study focuses on how AKG affects health and lifespan.

  4. Measurements: The researchers collected data over an extended period to understand the effects of AKG. They mimicked human health conditions.

  5. CaAKG promotes a longer, healthier life: The study found that giving CaAKG to mice increased their lifespan and improved their overall health as they aged.

  6. AKG's impact on lowering cytokines: CaAKG supplementation led to lower levels of inflammatory cytokines, molecules involved in cell signaling. Chronic inflammation is linked to age-related diseases, so reducing cytokines suggests AKG promotes healthspan and lifespan.

  7. Reducing Inflammation: The study suggests that AKG increases a specific anti-inflammatory molecule that may help suppress chronic inflammation and contribute to the observed health benefits.

  8. Delaying Illness and Enhancing Health: AKG, at least in mice, reduced frailty and increased longevity. In other words, the length of poor health and disease was reduced, allowing for longer healthy living.

The study highlights how AKG, delivered as CaAKG, promotes longer, healthier lifespan by affecting inflammation and metabolism. However, it's important to note that these findings are specific to mice, and more research is needed to understand applicability to humans.


Click here for the complete study findings.


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