Alpha-Ketoglutarate
Also known as: AKG, α-Ketoglutarate, α-KG, 2-Oxoglutaric acid, Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate, Ca-AKG
Effective Dosage
No established dose from provided studies for humans
What the Science Says
Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is a naturally occurring compound found in every cell of the body, where it plays a central role in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle — the process cells use to produce energy. It sits at a key junction between energy metabolism and amino acid processing. Supplement marketers promote it for anti-aging and longevity, and one ongoing human clinical trial (ABLE) is testing 1 g/day of calcium AKG over 6 months to see if it can reduce biological age in middle-aged adults — but results are not yet published. Animal studies suggest calcium AKG may support growth performance and antioxidant capacity, but these findings cannot be directly applied to humans.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to extend human lifespan — a rigorous multi-site mouse study found AKG did NOT increase lifespan. No published human RCT results yet showing it reduces biological age. No proven benefit for muscle building, fat loss, or cognitive performance based on available data. Don't confuse its role as a normal metabolic byproduct with it being a proven therapeutic supplement.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Alpha-Ketoglutarate (AKG) is a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle and plays a role in energy production and amino acid metabolism. Research suggests that AKG supplementation may enhance exercise performance, support muscle recovery, and improve metabolic health.
Strong EvidenceEffective at: 1-10 g daily
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic or absorption data provided in the available studies. Calcium salt form (Ca-AKG) appears to be used in human trials, possibly for improved stability.
Red Flags to Watch For
- The key human anti-aging RCT (ABLE trial) has not yet published efficacy results — the only published paper covers recruitment feasibility, not outcomes
- A rigorous multi-site mouse lifespan study (ITP) found AKG did NOT extend lifespan, directly contradicting common marketing claims
- Most mechanistic research is in animals (fish, lambs, rats) or cell cultures — human translation is unproven
- Widely sold in 1000+ registered supplement products despite a near-complete absence of published human efficacy data
- AKG is a normal metabolic intermediate; elevated or supplemented levels do not automatically translate to health benefits
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06