Alpha-ketoglutaric acid-[3,3,4,4-d4]

Alpha-ketoglutaric acid-[3,3,4,4-d4] is a stable isotope-labeled compound used in various research fields, including biochemistry and metabolism. Here are some key applications of Alpha-ketoglutaric acid-[3,3,4,4-d4]:

Metabolic Flux Analysis: Researchers use Alpha-ketoglutaric acid-[3,3,4,4-d4] in metabolic flux analysis to trace and quantify the flow of metabolites through biochemical pathways. By incorporating this deuterium-labeled compound into cell cultures or organisms, scientists can accurately measure the rates and directions of metabolic reactions. This approach provides essential insights into cellular metabolism, aiding in the understanding of disease states, nutrient utilization, and bioenergetic processes.

NMR and Mass Spectrometry Studies: Alpha-ketoglutaric acid-[3,3,4,4-d4] serves as an important tool in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and mass spectrometry for studying enzyme mechanisms and structural biology. The deuterium labels in this compound allow for the detailed analysis of enzymatic reactions and the monitoring of changes in the structural dynamics of proteins. These techniques enable researchers to probe the interactions of metabolites within complex systems with high precision.

Investigating TCA Cycle Dynamics: The compound is extensively used to examine the dynamics of the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, a central metabolic pathway. By using the labeled Alpha-ketoglutaric acid, researchers can study its conversion and role in energy production, anabolic reactions, and stress responses. Understanding these processes is pivotal in developing strategies to treat metabolic disorders and to improve metabolic efficiency in various organisms.

Isotope Tracing in Metabolomics: In metabolomics, Alpha-ketoglutaric acid-[3,3,4,4-d4] is used for isotope tracing experiments to explore metabolic pathways and interactions. This approach helps scientists to map out how metabolite levels change in response to genetic, environmental, or pharmacological interventions. Such insights are crucial for developing personalized medicine approaches and optimizing metabolic engineering practices.