α-Ketoglutarate for Preventing and Managing Intestinal Epithelial Dysfunction

Abstract

α-Ketoglutarate for Preventing and Managing Intestinal Epithelial Dysfunction Alejandro Bravo Iniguez 1 , Min Du 2 , Mei-Jun Zhu 1,* 1 School of Food Science, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States; 2 Department of Animal Sciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, United States ABSTRACT The epithelium lining the intestinal tract serves a multifaceted role. It plays a crucial role in nutrient absorption and immune regulation and also acts as a protective barrier, separating underlying tissues from the gut lumen content. Disruptions in the delicate balance of the gut epithelium trigger inflammatory responses, aggravate conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, and potentially lead to more severe complications such as colorectal cancer. Maintaining intestinal epithelial homeostasis is vital for overall health, and there is growing interest in identifying nutraceuticals that can strengthen the intestinal epithelium. α-Ketoglutarate, a metabolite of the tricarboxylic acid cycle, displays a variety of bioactive effects, including functioning as an antioxidant, a necessary cofactor for epigenetic modification, and exerting anti-inflammatory effects. This article presents a comprehensive overview of studies investigating the potential of α-ketoglutarate supple mentation in preventing dysfunction of the intestinal epithelium. Keywords: α-ketoglutarate, intestinal health, inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal cancer, gut microbiome