a-Ketoisocaproic Acid

Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid (α-KIC), also known as 2-oxoisocaproic acid or 4-methyl-2-oxovaleric acid, is a metabolic intermediate produced from the breakdown of the branched-chain amino acid leucine.  This compound is a branched-chain keto acid and a ketogenic compound.

In the metabolic pathway, a-Ketoisocaproic Acid is produced during the oxidative decarboxylation of leucine, catalyzed by the branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase complex (BCKDC). 

It can serve as a biomarker for disorders related to branched-chain amino acid metabolism such as maple syrup urine disease (MSUD), where its elevated levels indicate deficiencies or impairments in enzymes like BCKDC.

In the liver, a-Ketoisocaproic Acid can be converted into various compounds including isovaleryl-CoA, which is the main product, as well as cholesterol and acetyl-CoA, depending on the available enzymes and cofactors. 

Studies have explored its potential as a supplement to aid in physical performance and muscle recovery, though results are inconclusive.  It has been observed to reduce skeletal muscle damage after eccentric exercises and may play roles in protein synthesis and muscle regeneration.  However, the specific mechanisms remain unclear.  

Notably, multiple studies have shown no adverse effects from ingesting a-Ketoisocaproic Acid or its derivatives in humans or animals.

What is a-Ketoisocaproic Acid?  [3., 5., 7., 10.] 

Alpha-ketoisocaproic acid (α-KIC), also known as 2-oxoisocaproic acid or 4-methyl-2-oxovaleric acid, is a metabolic intermediate derived from the breakdown of the branched-chain amino acid leucine.  It is a branched-chain keto acid, and a ketogenic compound. 

a-Ketoisocaproic Acid is produced during the oxidative decarboxylation of leucine, a reaction catalyzed by the branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase complex (BCKDC).

Elevated levels of a-Ketoisocaproic Acid in urine or blood can serve as a biomarker for disorders related to branched-chain amino acid metabolism, such as maple syrup urine disease (MSUD). 

In MSUD and related conditions, there is an accumulation of a-Ketoisocaproic Acid and other branched-chain 2-oxo acids due to deficiencies or impairments in enzymes like BCKDC involved in their catabolism. Measuring a-Ketoisocaproic Acid levels can aid in the diagnosis, monitoring, and management of these disorders.

In the metabolic pathway, a-Ketoisocaproic Acid is produced in one of the first steps of the leucine degradation pathway by the enzyme branched-chain amino acid aminotransferase.  

In the liver, a-Ketoisocaproic Acid can be converted to various compounds like cholesterol, acetyl-CoA, isovaleryl-CoA, and other biological molecules, depending on the enzymes and cofactors present. 

Isovaleryl-CoA is the main compound synthesized from a-Ketoisocaproic Acid.

While a-Ketoisocaproic Acid and its derivatives have been studied as potential supplements to aid in physical performance and muscle recovery, the results are inconclusive without the presence of other ergogenic supplements. 

It has been observed to reduce skeletal muscle damage after eccentric exercises in individuals not accustomed to such exercises.

There is evidence suggesting a role in protein synthesis, skeletal muscle regeneration, and proteolysis, but the specific mechanisms are not well understood.

Multiple studies have demonstrated no adverse effects on humans or animals that ingested a-Ketoisocaproic Acid or its derivatives. However, in patients with MSUD who are unable to metabolize branched-chain alpha-keto acids, a-Ketoisocaproic Acid is believed to be one of the key mediators of neurotoxicity.

What is Maple Syrup Urine Disease?  [5.] 

Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) is a rare genetic disorder caused by a deficiency in the branched-chain alpha-ketoacid dehydrogenase complex, leading to the accumulation of branched-chain amino acids and their toxic byproducts. 

This condition is detectable in newborn screenings due to its severe impact on development if left untreated. 

MSUD presents in the neonatal period with symptoms such as poor feeding, lethargy, irritability, and a characteristic maple syrup odor in urine.  Without intervention, it can lead to irreversible brain damage, seizures, coma, and death. 

Early diagnosis and management, including dietary restrictions and metabolic monitoring, are crucial for improving outcomes and quality of life. 

Acute episodes require emergency treatment to manage metabolic crises and prevent complications like cerebral edema.  Long-term care involves a specialized diet and regular health monitoring to manage the disorder effectively.

What Are Organic Acids?  [2., 4.]

Organic acids are organic compounds with acidic properties.  They include a variety of functional groups like carboxyl, phenol, enol, and thiol, with carboxylic acids having the strongest acidity.

Organic acids are considered weak acids, with those containing phenol, enol, alcohol, or thiol groups being even weaker.  

Their structures vary in terms of carbon chain types—aromatic, aliphatic, alicyclic, heterocyclic—saturation, substitutions, and the number of functional groups. 

These acids play critical roles in metabolic and catabolic pathways, notably in the tricarboxylic acid cycle inside mitochondria, which is central to energy production in eukaryotes.  They are also pivotal in determining the sensory properties of fruits and vegetables.

Organic Acid Disorders  [1., 9.]

Organic acid disorders are inherited metabolic conditions that affect the enzymes or transport proteins essential for the breakdown of amino acids, lipids, or carbohydrates. They are marked by the excessive excretion of non-amino organic acids in urine, primarily due to defects in specific enzymes involved in amino acid breakdown that cause buildup of organic acids in tissues.

Conditions can manifest as inborn metabolic disorders of organic acids and amino acids, urea cycle anomalies, and mitochondrial respiratory chain deficiencies.

These disorders are typically passed down through autosomal recessive inheritance.  They often present in newborns with symptoms like vomiting and lethargy, progressing to more severe neurological symptoms. 

Early diagnosis and intervention are critical and can improve outcomes. Diagnostic methods include urine organic acid analysis via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). 

Current treatments focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications, although definitive therapies are still under research.  Treatment focuses may include dietary management, detoxifying harmful metabolites, and in severe cases, organ transplantation. 

Continuous monitoring and management are essential for managing symptoms and preventing complications.

Organic Acids and the Microbiome  [6.]

Increasingly, research highlights new relationships between the microbiome and human health.  Many organisms that comprise the microbiome produce organic acids that can then be tested for additional diagnostic capability.  

Certain organic acids in urine like hippuric acid, benzoic acid, and indoleacetic acid are metabolites produced by gut bacteria from the breakdown of amino acids, dietary polyphenols, and other substances. 

These acids provide insights into gut health and metabolic functions.  For example, elevated levels of certain acids may indicate gut dysbiosis or specific metabolic imbalances, such as phenylketonuria. 

Their presence and concentration are influenced by diet, gut microbiota composition, and overall metabolic health, making them valuable indicators in clinical settings for assessing both metabolic and gastrointestinal conditions.

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Organic Acid Testing in Functional Medicine

Organic Acid Testing in Functional Medicine

In functional medicine, organic acid testing is utilized to evaluate a patient's metabolic function through a simple urine test. This testing can identify metabolic imbalances that may affect a patient’s mood, energy, and overall health. 

Testing provides insights into nutrient deficiencies, dietary habits, toxic exposures, and gut microbiome activity. 

The results assist practitioners in customizing treatment plans to address specific metabolic dysfunctions and improve health outcomes. 

Additionally, it helps in assessing the impact of microbial metabolism and the efficiency of the Krebs Cycle, aiding in personalized healthcare.

Laboratory Testing for a-Ketoisocaproic Acid

Test Information, Sampling Methods and Preparation

Laboratory testing for organic acids including a-Ketoisocaproic Acid is typically done in urine, although it can also be tested in blood.  Testing may be ordered to diagnose an inborn metabolic disorder, or to assess metabolic function and gastrointestinal health in a functional medicine setting.  

Urine samples may be collected in a clinical setting; they can also be collected at home.  Some labs recommend or require a first morning void sample, to provide a concentrated sample.  

Interpreting a-Ketoisocaproic Acid Results

Optimal Range for a-Ketoisocaproic Acid Testing

Generally, falling within reference ranges for organic acids is recommended, although for many of these organic acids, a level towards the lower end of the reference range is considered optimal.  

It is essential to consult with the laboratory company used for their recommended reference range for a-Ketoisocaproic Acid.  

One company reports the following reference range for a-Ketoisocaproic Acid:  <1.09 mcg/mg creatinine  [8.]

Clinical Significance of Elevated Levels of a-Ketoisocaproic Acid

Elevations of a-Ketoisocaproic Acid, or α-Ketoisocaproic Acid (AKIC), often indicate a deficiency in an enzymatic cofactor such as a member of the B vitamin complex or lipoic acid.  

Alternatively, levels of a-Ketoisocaproic Acid may rise with certain genetic deficiencies, which often manifest as maple syrup urine disease.  

Clinical Significance of Low Levels of a-Ketoisocaproic Acid

Low levels of a-Ketoisocaproic Acid are not considered clinically relevant.

a-Ketoisocaproic Acid Related Biomarkers and Comparative Analysis

a-Ketoisocaproic Acid, or α-Ketoisocaproic Acid (AKIC), is typically tested along with other organic acids to gain deeper insights into metabolic pathways and physiological processes.

Organic acids that may be tested as part of a panel include: 

2-Hydroxybutyric Acid: this acid is a marker for insulin resistance and increased oxidative stress.

2-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid: derived from phenylalanine metabolism, this acid is used as a biomarker in various metabolic assessments.

3-Hydroxybutyric Acid: a ketone body produced during fat metabolism, indicative of carbohydrate deprivation or ketogenic conditions.

3-Hydroxyisovaleric Acid: an organic acid that accumulates in leucine catabolism disorders, often elevated in maple syrup urine disease.

3-Indoleacetic Acid: a metabolite of tryptophan, it is significant in the study of serotonin pathways and plant growth regulation.

4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid: a derivative of tyrosine metabolism, it is linked to catechin (green tea) metabolism and may be produced by some intestinal bacteria.

4-Hydroxyphenylacetic Acid: a breakdown product of tyrosine, used in diagnosing disorders involving the degradation of aromatic amino acids.

5-Hydroxyindoleacetic Acid: the main metabolite of serotonin, used as a marker in the diagnosis of carcinoid syndrome.

Adipic Acid: a dicarboxylic acid that can also be formed metabolically in humans through the oxidation of certain fatty acids.

a-Keto-b-Methylvaleric Acid: an intermediate in isoleucine metabolism, which can accumulate in certain metabolic disorders.

‍a-Ketoisocaproic Acid: an intermediate in the metabolism of leucine, elevated in maple syrup urine disease.

a-Ketoisovaleric Acid: a breakdown product of valine metabolism, also linked to maple syrup urine disease.

a-Ketoglutaric Acid: a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle, essential for energy production and nitrogen transport.

Benzoic Acid: produced from phenylalanine and polyphenol metabolism by intestinal bacteria. High levels in urine can indicate glycine deficiency or liver dysfunction.

Cis-Aconitic Acid: an intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid cycle, formed by the dehydration of citric acid.

Citric Acid: a central compound in the citric acid cycle, crucial for energy production in cells.

Ethylmalonic Acid: this acid accumulates in ethylmalonic encephalopathy and is involved in fatty acid metabolism.

Fumaric Acid: an intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, participating in energy production through its conversion to malate and subsequent participation in the generation of ATP.

Homovanillic Acid: a major metabolite of dopamine, used as a marker to monitor dopamine levels.

Hippuric Acid: formed from the conjugation of benzoic acid and glycine; elevated levels can indicate exposure to certain environmental toxins.

Hydroxymethylglutarate: an intermediate in leucine metabolism, also associated with disorders of ketogenesis and ketolysis.

Isocitric Acid: an isomer of citric acid and an important part of the citric acid cycle, pivotal in cellular energy production.

Kynurenic Acid: a product of tryptophan metabolism, known for its role as a neuroprotective agent.

Lactic Acid: produced from pyruvate via anaerobic metabolism, an indicator of hypoxia and strenuous exercise.

Malic Acid: a dicarboxylic acid found in fruits, and involved  in the citric acid cycle.

Methylmalonic Acid: an indicator of Vitamin B12 deficiency, it accumulates when the vitamin is deficient.

Methylsuccinic Acid: a dicarboxylic acid often involved in alternative pathways of fatty acid metabolism.

Orotic Acid: involved in the metabolism of pyrimidines, abnormalities in its levels can indicate metabolic disorders.

Pyroglutamic Acid: an uncommon amino acid derivative that can accumulate in glutathione synthesis disorders.

Pyruvic Acid: a key intersection in several metabolic pathways; its levels are crucial for assessing cellular respiration and metabolic function.

Quinolinic Acid: a neuroactive metabolite of the kynurenine pathway, elevated levels are associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

Suberic Acid: a dicarboxylic acid that is a biomarker in adipic aciduria, often studied in relation to fatty acid oxidation disorders.

Succinic Acid: a four-carbon dicarboxylic acid that plays a central role in the Krebs cycle, crucial for energy production.

Tricarballylic Acid: an organic acid that can inhibit aconitase in the citric acid cycle and is sometimes associated with glyphosate exposure.

Vanillylmandelic Acid: a metabolite of epinephrine and norepinephrine, used as a marker for neuroblastoma and other catecholamine-secreting tumors.

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