Basics
Alpha-ketoglutaric acid is an essential building block in the citrate cycle and nitrogen transport. It is a dicarboxylic acid and a derivative of n-pentane. It is usually present in the form of colorless and odorless crystals. From a pharmaceutical point of view, alpha-ketoglutaric acid is not yet used as a drug - except in homeopathic remedies. However, it is already the subject of intensive research and is said to help with metabolic disorders and obesity, among other things. Recent studies have demonstrated a muscle protein-building effect that can help patients rebuild muscle after surgery.