OXOGLUTARATES Meaning and
Definition
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Oxoglutarates, also known as alpha-ketoglutarates, are organic compounds that belong to the family of carboxylic acids. They are derived from the oxidation of α-isocaproic acid and are important intermediates in various metabolic pathways involving the tricarboxylic acid cycle. The chemical formula of oxoglutarates is C5H6O5.
In biological systems, oxoglutarates serve as crucial molecules in cellular respiration and energy production. They participate in the oxidative decarboxylation of α-keto acids, playing a fundamental role in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids. Oxoglutarates act as coenzymes, facilitating the transfer of high-energy electrons during biochemical reactions.
Furthermore, oxoglutarates are involved in the synthesis of amino acids, particularly glutamate and glutamine. They are essential for the transamination reactions that convert amino acids into keto acids and vice versa. Additionally, oxoglutarates contribute to the regulation of the cellular nitrogen balance, and their levels are tightly controlled to ensure proper cellular function.
Oxoglutarates are also found in various dietary supplements, where they are commonly used to support athletic performance and recovery. These supplements, often referred to as alpha-ketoglutarate supplements, are believed to enhance energy production, increase endurance, and improve muscle recovery after intense physical activity.
Overall, oxoglutarates play a vital role in metabolism, energy production, and cellular regulation, making them a significant component of various biological processes.
Common Misspellings for OXOGLUTARATES
- ixoglutarates
- kxoglutarates
- lxoglutarates
- pxoglutarates
- 0xoglutarates
- 9xoglutarates
- ozoglutarates
- ocoglutarates
- odoglutarates
- osoglutarates
- oxiglutarates
- oxkglutarates
- oxlglutarates
- oxpglutarates
- ox0glutarates
- ox9glutarates
- oxoflutarates
- oxovlutarates
- oxoblutarates
- oxohlutarates
Etymology of OXOGLUTARATES
The word "oxoglutarates" is derived from the combination of two terms: "oxo" and "glutarate".
The term "oxo" is an abbreviation of the Greek word "oxys", which means "sharp" or "acid". In chemistry, it is used to indicate the presence of oxygen in a compound.
The term "glutarate" refers to a chemical compound called "glutaric acid", which is a dicarboxylic acid with five carbon atoms. The name "glutaric acid" is derived from the Latin word "glutinum", meaning "glue", as it was first isolated from glue.
When the carboxylic acid group of glutaric acid is ionized, it forms glutarate ions. Adding the prefix "oxo" to glutarate indicates that oxygen is present along with the carboxylic acid group.
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