Question

During tyrosine and phenylalanine synthesis, chorismate is an intermediate. During this process, phosphoenolpyruvate and alpha ketoglutarate are produced. If chorismate production is low, how can this effect glycolysis and the Kreb’s cycle?

Answer 1

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid plays a vital role in the Krebs’ cycle production of energy. As a precursor of the amino acid, glutamic acid, AKG stabilizes blood glucose levels during exercise. Alpha-ketoglutaric acid benefits the athlete by supporting protein synthesis, allowing for longer, more intense workouts, and by promoting healthy nitrogen balance.

Studies of patients given supplemental alpha-keto-glutarate following surgery found a nitrogen-sparing effect and a reduction in loss of lean body mass. Alpha-ketoglutaric acid helps reduce ammonium levels that may interfere with exercise performance. Studies have demonstrated that ammonia formed in the muscle, kidney and brain combines with alpha-ketoglutarate and L-glutamate to reduce ammonia toxicity.

The Krebs’ cycle is an eloquent and essential system designed to generate large amounts of cellular energy required for life. Disruption of the Krebs’ cycle, whether caused by deficiencies in energy substrates, acquired or inherited disease states, or physical stress, leads to an inhibition of normal energy production and contributes to a wide range of metabolic disturbances and symptoms.

The use of supplemental Krebs’ cycle acids and anti-fatigue buffers can assist in the management of mitochondrial energy substrates and increase cellular energy production. Such a nutritional approach can be of benefit to athletes, anyone who is aging, as well as those suffering from metabolic disturbances caused by inherited mitochondrial diseases or acquired diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS).