Oxoglutarate

Oxoglutarate (also known as 2-oxoglutarate) is a key molecule in the Citric Acid Cycle, which is a central metabolic pathway in all aerobic organisms. It is a five-carbon dicarboxylic acid, produced by the deamination of Glutamate, and is a precursor for the synthesis of Glutamine, Glutathione, Proline, and Arginine in the Glutamate family of amino acids.

Structure and properties

Oxoglutarate is a dicarboxylic acid. It contains two carboxyl groups, which are acidic, and one ketone group. The molecular formula of oxoglutarate is C5H6O5.

Role in metabolism

Oxoglutarate plays a central role in the metabolism of organisms that use aerobic respiration. It is a key intermediate in the Citric Acid Cycle, where it is formed by the oxidation of Isocitrate, and is then converted into Succinyl CoA by the enzyme Oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex.

In addition to its role in the Citric Acid Cycle, oxoglutarate is also a precursor for the synthesis of several amino acids, including Glutamine, Glutathione, Proline, and Arginine. These amino acids are part of the Glutamate family of amino acids, which are synthesized from oxoglutarate by transamination.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of oxoglutarate in the body can be indicative of certain medical conditions. For example, high levels of oxoglutarate in the urine can be a sign of Type II Hyperoxaluria, a rare genetic disorder. Additionally, mutations in the gene encoding the enzyme Oxoglutarate dehydrogenase can lead to a buildup of oxoglutarate in the body, which can cause neurological disorders.

Oxoglutarate Resources
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