Question

37. During dietary restriction, amino acids may be used as metabolic fuels. In this process, glutamate is converted by glutamate dehydrogenase to alpha ketoglutarate. Alpha ketoglutarate binds to the beta subunit of ATP synthase and inhibits its catalytic activity. Predict the effects of increased alpha ketoglutarate on oxygen consumption and the production of reactive oxygen species.

38. Is this consistent with the hypothesis that dietary restriction can slow the aging process?

Answer 1

Answer no. 37 it was seen that enteral or oral administration of AKG ( Alpha ketoglutarate) administration increases the level of proline in the portal and arterial blood by 45% and 20%, respectively when compared to individuals that were not given AKG. Now through improved proline and hydroxyproline formation, this AKG is believed to improve and enhance bone tissue formation. It is found in a study that AKG not only extends lifespan but it also delays age-related phenotypes, such as the decline in rapid, coordinated body movements. The AKG improves blood vessel elasticity by exerting its antioxidant in aging organisms also.

The people who regularly eat a restricted diet lose their weight and experiences a drop in their resting metabolic rates. Such peoples also experience a reduction in various markers of oxidative stress due to a cut down on calories., The lower rate of metabolism and level of calorie restriction was linked to a reduction in oxidative damage to cells and tissues thus slowing down the aging process.

effects of increased alpha-ketoglutarate on oxygen consumption

Alpha-ketoglutarate (AKG) is an important intermediate of the Krebs cycle and it plays a very critical role in multiple metabolic processes in both animals and humans. It contributes to the oxidation of nutrients and provides energy for living a healthier life.

Now, an excess of ROS ( reactive oxygen species) could lead to oxidative stress in cells and thus Oxidative stress is associated with the many disorder of proteins, lipid oxidation, and nucleic acid breakdown, etc which may further impair the cellular physiological functions of our body leading to many diseases like cancer or some neurological diseases.

There are numerous studies which suggest that AKG could improve antioxidative function dramatically against the oxidative imbalance occurring in our cells, thus further contributing to the prevention and treatment of various diseases which are induced by oxidative stress.

It plays a vital role in scavenging ROS in organisms. It also improves our physiological metabolism and acts as a scavenger for ROS which are known to alleviate oxidative stress via nonenzymatic oxidative decarboxylation in H₂O₂ decomposition.

In humans, AKG is extensively used in various emergent situations like trauma, aging diseases, some postoperative recovery, and other nutritional diseases.