Naturally occurring molecule shown to restore memory function in Alzheimer's models

Medical Xpress / National University of Singapore / Aging Cell ^ | Dec. 27, 2025 | Sheeja Navakkode et al

[ConservativeMind]

Scientists are working to understand how aging itself can be modified to prevent age-related diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.

A new study has discovered that calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (CaAKG), a safe, naturally occurring metabolite commonly studied for healthy aging, can restore key memory-related brain functions that have been disrupted in Alzheimer's disease.

The main aim of the study was to evaluate whether CaAKG could also enhance synaptic plasticity in the Alzheimer's brain, restore memory-related signaling, protect neurons from early degenerative changes, and contribute to healthier cognitive aging.

The study shows that CaAKG helps brain cells communicate better in Alzheimer's disease models. It not only repairs the weakened signals between neurons, but also restores associative memory, one of the early abilities lost in Alzheimer's. Because AKG levels naturally fall as we age, replenishing this molecule could be a promising way to support healthier brain aging and lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

To understand how CaAKG helps the brain, the researchers measured long-term potentiation (LTP), which is the process that allows neurons to strengthen their connections. LTP is essential for learning and forming lasting memories, but in Alzheimer's disease it becomes severely impaired. The team found that CaAKG brought this signal-strengthening process back to normal. CaAKG also boosted autophagy, the brain's built-in "cleanup" system that removes damaged proteins and keeps neurons healthy.

The molecule worked through a newly identified pathway, helping neurons become more flexible by activating L-type calcium channels and calcium-permeable AMPA receptors, while avoiding NMDA receptors, which are often disrupted by amyloid buildup. Importantly, CaAKG restored synaptic tagging and capture, a key mechanism that allows the brain to link events and form associative memories. This suggests that CaAKG may support not just basic memory function, but also more complex learning abilities that decline early in Alzheimer's disease.

[tired&retired]

I notice that some brands add Vitamin C in the form of Calcium Ascorbate to the AKG Supplement. Is that the same as Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate (CaAKG)?

[ConservativeMind]

It does not appear to be the same, because it’s not the molecular form—it’s just AKG and something else.

[humblegunner]

I warned everyone on this site and elsewhere that “covid” was not what the establishment was telling us it was

If only we had LISTENED to you, we might have survived.

188%.

[reasonisfaith]

HG, I feel unworthy of accolades from you, though I’ll gladly accept the honor.