What are the Chemical Properties of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate?

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate (Ca-AKG) is a significant compound that functions as a crucial intermediate in the Krebs cycle, essential for cellular energy production and metabolic processes. This white crystalline powder is the calcium salt of alpha-ketoglutaric acid with one water molecule attached, giving it the molecular formula C₅H₄CaO₅·H₂O and a molecular weight of 184.16. Ca-AKG is highly soluble in water, making it versatile for various formulations in pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and cosmetics. Its chemical structure enables it to participate in numerous biochemical reactions, particularly those involved in energy metabolism, protein synthesis, and ammonia detoxification, positioning it as a valuable compound for enhancing metabolic efficiency and promoting overall cellular health.

Fundamental Chemical Characteristics of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate

Molecular Structure and Physical Properties

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate possesses a distinctive molecular structure that contributes significantly to its functionality in biological systems. The compound consists of alpha-ketoglutaric acid, a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, bonded with calcium ions and one water molecule. This unique structural arrangement gives it the chemical formula C₅H₄CaO₅·H₂O and a molecular weight of 184.16. In its pure form, Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate appears as a fine white crystalline powder, which is characteristic of many calcium salts. This physical state makes it easy to handle and incorporate into various formulations. The compound demonstrates excellent water solubility, which enhances its bioavailability when consumed as a supplement or used in pharmaceutical preparations. The presence of the monohydrate form provides stability to the compound, preventing it from degrading under normal storage conditions when kept in a cool, dry environment as recommended by CHENLANGBIO's storage guidelines. These physical characteristics make Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate an ideal ingredient for diverse applications, from nutritional supplements to cosmetic formulations, where stability and solubility are crucial factors for effectiveness.

Chemical Reactivity and Stability

The chemical reactivity of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate is primarily determined by its functional groups and ionic nature. The alpha-keto group (C=O) adjacent to the carboxylic acid functionality gives this compound its distinctive reactivity profile, making it an active participant in various metabolic pathways. When examined under laboratory conditions, Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate demonstrates remarkable stability at room temperature when properly stored in its recommended packaging—either the 1kg aluminum foil bags or 25kg paper drums provided by CHENLANGBIO. The compound maintains its chemical integrity over extended periods, which is critical for pharmaceutical and nutritional applications where product stability directly impacts efficacy. Unlike many other metabolic intermediates, Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate does not readily oxidize when exposed to atmospheric oxygen, a property that enhances its shelf life and usability in commercial products. The calcium component of the molecule provides additional stability through ionic interactions that help maintain the compound's structure. When exposed to extreme pH conditions, the compound may undergo hydrolysis, particularly in strongly acidic environments, but remains relatively stable within the physiological pH range of 6.5-7.5. This balance of reactivity and stability makes Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate particularly valuable for both research applications and commercial formulations where consistent chemical performance is essential.

Solubility and Solution Behavior

The solubility characteristics of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate significantly contribute to its effectiveness in biological systems and pharmaceutical applications. This compound exhibits excellent water solubility, dissolving readily to form clear solutions at room temperature, which facilitates its incorporation into liquid supplements, injectable formulations, and topical preparations. Quantitative studies have shown that Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate has a solubility exceeding 20g/100mL in water at 25°C, making it one of the more soluble calcium salts available for supplementation. When dissolved, it dissociates into calcium ions and alpha-ketoglutarate anions, both of which are biologically active components. The solution behavior of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate is characterized by mild buffering capacity, helping to stabilize the pH of formulations in which it is included. This property makes it particularly valuable in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications where pH stability is crucial for product performance and safety. Additionally, the compound demonstrates moderate solubility in polar organic solvents such as ethanol and propylene glycol, though significantly less than its water solubility. This selective solubility profile allows formulators at CHENLANGBIO to develop specialized delivery systems for different applications, maximizing the compound's effectiveness across various product categories. The solubility characteristics also contribute to the high bioavailability of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate when used as a dietary supplement, ensuring efficient absorption and utilization by the body.

Biochemical Properties and Metabolic Significance

Role in Energy Metabolism

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate occupies a central position in cellular energy metabolism as a pivotal intermediate in the Krebs cycle, also known as the citric acid cycle or tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. This biochemical pathway is the metabolic hub of the cell, where carbohydrates, fats, and proteins converge to generate energy in the form of ATP. Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate specifically functions at a critical juncture in this cycle, participating in the conversion of isocitrate to succinate coenzyme A. During this transformation, it accepts electrons and contributes to the electron transport chain, ultimately supporting the production of significant amounts of cellular energy. The calcium component of the molecule enhances the stability of alpha-ketoglutarate, allowing for more efficient metabolic processing within cellular environments. Research has demonstrated that supplementation with Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate can enhance mitochondrial function by providing a readily available substrate for energy production, particularly in tissues with high energy demands such as muscles, brain, and heart. Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have reported improved endurance and reduced fatigue when incorporating this compound into their supplement regimen, which aligns with its role in optimizing energy metabolism. Additionally, in situations of metabolic stress or during intense physical exertion, the availability of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate can help maintain optimal energy production by supporting the continuous operation of the Krebs cycle, preventing the accumulation of intermediates that might otherwise slow down metabolic processes.

Protein Synthesis and Nitrogen Balance

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate plays a crucial role in protein metabolism and nitrogen balance within the body, making it particularly valuable for applications related to muscle health and tissue repair. The compound serves as a key acceptor of amino groups during transamination reactions, which are essential for both the synthesis and breakdown of amino acids—the building blocks of proteins. When amino acids undergo deamination, the resulting ammonia must be efficiently processed to prevent toxicity; Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate facilitates this process by incorporating the ammonia into glutamate, which can then be safely transported and metabolized. This detoxification mechanism is especially important in high-protein diets or during periods of increased muscle breakdown, such as intense exercise or recovery from injury. Studies have shown that supplementation with Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate can help reduce muscle catabolism and promote anabolism by maintaining a positive nitrogen balance. The calcium component further supports protein synthesis by facilitating enzyme function and cellular signaling pathways involved in tissue growth and repair. CHENLANGBIO's high-purity (99%) Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate ensures that these biochemical processes occur efficiently without interference from contaminants that might compromise metabolic outcomes. For athletes, bodybuilders, and individuals recovering from surgery or injury, the nitrogen-sparing effect of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate provides a significant advantage by preserving lean muscle mass while supporting the body's natural recovery processes. This unique combination of promoting protein synthesis while simultaneously facilitating ammonia detoxification distinguishes Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate from many other nutritional supplements focused solely on protein metabolism.

Antioxidant and Cellular Protection Mechanisms

Beyond its roles in energy production and protein metabolism, Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate demonstrates significant antioxidant properties that contribute to cellular protection and longevity. The compound acts as an indirect antioxidant by supporting the synthesis of glutathione—one of the body's primary endogenous antioxidants—through its conversion to glutamate, a precursor in glutathione production. This mechanism helps neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and free radicals that would otherwise damage cellular components, including proteins, lipids, and DNA. Recent research has identified that Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate can modulate specific signaling pathways involved in the cellular stress response, activating protective mechanisms that enhance cell survival under oxidative conditions. The compound has been shown to help maintain mitochondrial membrane integrity, preventing the release of pro-apoptotic factors that would trigger programmed cell death under stressful conditions. This protective effect is particularly relevant in tissues with high metabolic activity and oxygen consumption, such as neurons, cardiac cells, and skeletal muscle. CHENLANGBIO's Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate, with its 99% purity level, provides optimal antioxidant support by ensuring that the bioactive compound reaches its target tissues without interference from impurities. Age-related decline in cellular function has been associated with decreased alpha-ketoglutarate levels, suggesting that supplementation may help counteract some aspects of the aging process. The compound's ability to reduce oxidative stress while simultaneously supporting energy metabolism creates a dual mechanism for cellular protection, making Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate an increasingly popular ingredient in anti-aging formulations and products designed to support overall cellular health and longevity.

Applications and Pharmaceutical Relevance

Therapeutic Applications in Medicine

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate has emerged as a compound with significant therapeutic potential across various medical specialties. In nephrology, it has shown promise in managing kidney disorders by reducing ammonia levels and supporting renal function. Patients with chronic kidney disease often experience elevated ammonia levels due to impaired nitrogen excretion; Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate helps address this by facilitating alternative pathways for ammonia detoxification. In hepatology, the compound supports liver function by enhancing the liver's natural detoxification processes, making it valuable for patients with compromised hepatic capacity. Cardiology research has identified potential benefits for heart health, as Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate supports mitochondrial function in cardiac muscle cells, potentially improving energy production in conditions characterized by impaired cardiac metabolism. In neurology, preliminary studies suggest neuroprotective effects, with potential applications in managing neurodegenerative conditions where oxidative stress and impaired energy metabolism contribute to disease progression. The 99% purity of CHENLANGBIO's Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate ensures minimal interference from contaminants that could otherwise compromise therapeutic outcomes in these sensitive patient populations. Oncology research has identified interesting applications for Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate in supporting conventional cancer treatments by potentially modulating cellular metabolism in tumor cells while supporting the energy needs of healthy tissues during aggressive therapies. As medical research continues to explore the therapeutic applications of this versatile compound, CHENLANGBIO remains committed to producing pharmaceutical-grade Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate that meets the rigorous standards required for clinical applications, with consistent quality controlled through their advanced production facilities and quality inspection center equipped with high-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC-ELSD), atomic fluorescence spectrometer (AFS), and other advanced analytical equipment.

Formulation Considerations and Stability

Formulating with Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate requires careful consideration of various pharmaceutical and manufacturing factors to ensure optimal product performance and stability. The compound's excellent water solubility facilitates its incorporation into liquid dosage forms, including oral solutions, suspensions, and injectables, though formulation scientists must account for potential interactions with other ingredients. When developing solid dosage forms such as tablets and capsules, formulators must consider the hygroscopic nature of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate, which necessitates appropriate moisture protection during manufacturing and packaging. CHENLANGBIO addresses this challenge by supplying the compound in moisture-resistant aluminum foil bags (1kg) and specialized paper drums (25kg) that maintain product integrity throughout storage and transportation. pH stability studies have demonstrated that Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate maintains optimal stability in slightly acidic to neutral environments (pH 5-7), which guides formulation decisions regarding buffers and excipients. Temperature sensitivity testing shows that the compound remains stable at room temperature but should be protected from extreme heat, which could accelerate degradation. Light sensitivity assessments indicate minimal photodegradation, though standard precautions against prolonged exposure to intense light are recommended. Compatibility studies conducted at CHENLANGBIO's research facilities have identified suitable excipients and incompatible substances, providing valuable guidance for formulators developing new products containing Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate. Accelerated stability testing under various environmental conditions has established appropriate shelf-life expectations and storage recommendations, ensuring that products maintain their efficacy throughout their intended use period. CHENLANGBIO's expertise in GMP-certified manufacturing processes, coupled with their advanced production equipment including dynamic countercurrent extraction, column separation technology, and spray drying technology, enables the production of Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate with consistently high quality and stability characteristics that meet the demanding requirements of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Industrial Applications and Market Trends

The industrial landscape for Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate continues to expand as new applications emerge across multiple sectors. In the nutritional supplement industry, the compound has gained significant traction as a premium ingredient in products targeting metabolic health, sports nutrition, and anti-aging. Market analysis indicates a compound annual growth rate exceeding 8% for Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate in the supplement sector, driven by increasing consumer awareness of its metabolic benefits and scientific validation of its effects. The pharmaceutical industry represents another substantial market, with Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate being incorporated into formulations for various therapeutic applications, particularly those addressing metabolic disorders, liver health, and conditions associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. CHENLANGBIO's high-purity (99%) product meets the stringent requirements for pharmaceutical applications, positioning the company as a preferred supplier for this demanding market segment. In the cosmetics and personal care industry, Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate has found applications in premium anti-aging formulations, where its cellular protection properties contribute to skin health and appearance. The food and beverage industry has begun incorporating the compound into functional food products designed to support metabolic health and energy production, though regulatory considerations vary by region. CHENLANGBIO's production capacity of 600 tons annually ensures reliable supply for these growing markets, while their comprehensive certifications—including ISO9001:2015, ISO22000, FAMI-QS, BRC, HALAL, and Kosher—facilitate global market access across various regulatory environments. Emerging applications in veterinary medicine and agricultural products represent developing market opportunities, with initial research suggesting benefits for livestock health and productivity. Industry forecasts predict continued growth in demand for high-quality Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate, driven by ongoing research revealing new applications and benefits, creating favorable market conditions for established suppliers like CHENLANGBIO with proven expertise in production and quality control.

Conclusion

Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate stands as a remarkable compound with diverse chemical properties that make it invaluable across multiple industries. Its role in energy metabolism, protein synthesis, and cellular protection, combined with its excellent stability and solubility characteristics, establish it as a premium ingredient for pharmaceutical, nutritional, and cosmetic applications.

Ready to experience the superior quality of our Calcium Alpha-Ketoglutarate Monohydrate? CHENLANGBIO is your trusted partner for high-purity biochemical compounds, backed by advanced manufacturing facilities, rigorous quality control, and comprehensive certifications. Contact our expert team today atadmin@chenlangbio.com to discuss how our premium products can enhance your formulations and meet your specific needs.

References

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