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Sodium α-ketoisocaproate

Alias: Sodium 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate; 2-Ketoisocaproic acid sodium salt
Cat No.:V106656 Purity: ≥98%
Sodium α-ketoisocaproate is a transaminase product of leucine and can stimulate insulin secretion.
Sodium α-ketoisocaproate
Sodium α-ketoisocaproate Chemical Structure CAS No.: 4502-00-5
Product category: Endogenous Metabolite
This product is for research use only, not for human use. We do not sell to patients.
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Other Forms of Sodium α-ketoisocaproate:

  • 4-Methyl-2-oxopentanoic acid
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Product Description
Sodium α-ketoisocaproate is a transaminase product of leucine and can stimulate insulin secretion. Sodium α-ketoisocaproate (α-KIC) can be oxidized to acetyl-CoA and acetoacetate, or it can generate leucine through transamination with glutamate to form α-KG.
Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate (Sodium 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate; alpha-KIC; CAS# 4502-00-5; C6H9NaO3; MW 152.12) is the sodium salt of the alpha-keto acid derived from the branched-chain amino acid leucine. It is an endogenous metabolite that serves as a key intermediate in leucine catabolism and plays a vital role in nitrogen balance and protein metabolism. As a transamination product of leucine, it stimulates insulin secretion and can be oxidized to acetyl-CoA and acetoacetate, or transaminated back to leucine via glutamate, forming alpha-ketoglutarate (alpha-KG). It is a research-grade compound used in metabolic studies, particularly in the context of diabetes, muscle wasting, and neurological disorders. It is a white to off-white powder with a melting point of 275degC and purity ≥98% (HPLC).
Biological Activity I Assay Protocols (From Reference)
Targets
Human Endogenous Metabolite
Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate (alpha-KIC) targets multiple metabolic pathways and enzymes. It is a potent stimulator of insulin secretion from pancreatic beta cells, making it a key player in glucose homeostasis. It also acts as an inhibitor of pyruvate transport and may influence the activity of branched-chain amino acid transaminase (BCAT) and branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) complexes. It is also known to inhibit the degradation of branched-chain amino acids by promoting feedback inhibition. Additionally, alpha-KIC can be converted to HMG-CoA, influencing cholesterol synthesis. It serves as a substrate for the enzyme alpha-ketoisocaproate dioxygenase.
ln Vitro
In vitro, Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate (alpha-KIC) stimulates insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner in isolated pancreatic islets and beta-cell lines (e.g., INS-1, MIN6). At concentrations of 0.5-10 mM, it significantly increases insulin release and cellular ATP content. It also enhances the oxidation of leucine and inhibits its own degradation via feedback inhibition. alpha-KIC (1-10 mM) serves as a substrate for the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle after conversion to acetyl-CoA. It also inhibits pyruvate transport with an IC₅0 in the low millimolar range. The compound is not cytotoxic at concentrations up to 20 mM in most cell types.
ln Vivo
In vivo, Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate (alpha-KIC) has been studied in animal models for its effects on insulin secretion, glucose homeostasis, and protein metabolism. In rats, oral or intraperitoneal administration (100-500 mg/kg) stimulates insulin secretion and lowers blood glucose levels. In a rat model of diabetes (streptozotocin-induced), alpha-KIC may have beneficial effects on glycemic control. It is also used in studies of branched-chain amino acid metabolism and muscle wasting. In mice, alpha-KIC (200-1000 mg/kg, oral) has been shown to reduce muscle protein breakdown and improve nitrogen balance. It is an endogenous metabolite, and exogenous administration is generally safe and well-tolerated.
Enzyme Assay
The activity of enzymes involved in leucine metabolism (e.g., BCAT, BCKDH) can be measured using Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate as a substrate. For example, BCKDH activity is measured in isolated mitochondria: mitochondria are incubated with 0.1-1 mM alpha-KIC in assay buffer (50 mM potassium phosphate pH 7.5, 0.5 mM CoA, 1 mM NAD+, 0.1 mM thiamine pyrophosphate, 0.5 mM MgCl2) at 37degC for 10-30 min. The formation of isovaleryl-CoA is coupled to the reduction of NAD+, which is measured at 340 nm. For BCAT, alpha-KIC is the product of transamination, and its formation is measured by HPLC.
Cell Assay
For cellular insulin secretion studies, INS-1 or MIN6 cells are seeded in 24-well plates (2×10⁵ cells/well) and cultured in RPMI-1640 with 10% FBS for 48 h. Cells are pre-incubated in Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate HEPES buffer (KRBH) without glucose for 1 h. They are then treated with Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate (0.5-20 mM) in KRBH containing 2.8 mM glucose for 1 h. The supernatant is collected, and insulin concentration is measured by ELISA. For cell viability, MTT assays are performed. The stimulation of insulin secretion is concentration-dependent, with maximal effects observed at 5-10 mM alpha-KIC.
Animal Protocol
In vivo insulin secretion and glucose tolerance studies in rodents: Male Sprague-Dawley rats (200-250 g, n=6-10/group) are fasted overnight. Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate is dissolved in saline and administered orally (100-500 mg/kg) or intraperitoneally (50-200 mg/kg). Blood samples are collected from the tail vein at 0, 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 min post-dose. Insulin levels are measured by ELISA, and glucose levels are measured by glucometer. An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) can be performed 30 min after alpha-KIC administration, followed by 2 g/kg glucose orally. alpha-KIC significantly increases insulin secretion and improves glucose tolerance compared to vehicle controls.
ADME/Pharmacokinetics
Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate (alpha-KIC) is an endogenous metabolite that is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Following oral administration, peak plasma levels of alpha-KIC are reached within 30-60 minutes. It is transported into cells via monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs). The elimination half-life in rodents is approximately 1-2 hours. alpha-KIC is metabolized in the mitochondria of various tissues (liver, kidney, muscle) via the branched-chain alpha-keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKDH) complex to isovaleryl-CoA, which is further metabolized to acetyl-CoA and acetoacetate. It can also be converted back to leucine via transamination with glutamate, forming alpha-KG. The compound is not protein-bound and is excreted in urine as metabolites.
Toxicity/Toxicokinetics
Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate has low toxicity. The oral LD₅0 in rats is >5000 mg/kg, indicating high safety. It is an endogenous metabolite, and administration of exogenous alpha-KIC in animal studies (up to 1000 mg/kg) does not cause significant adverse effects. The compound is not mutagenic or genotoxic. It may cause mild gastrointestinal upset at very high doses. It is not a skin or eye irritant. For research use, standard safety precautions for handling laboratory chemicals should be followed: use PPE (gloves, lab coat, goggles), work in a fume hood, avoid inhalation and skin contact.
References

[1]. Alpha-Ketoisocaproate-induced hypersecretion of insulin by islets from diabetes-susceptible mice. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2005 Aug;289(2):E218-24.

Additional Infomation
Sodium alpha-ketoisocaproate (alpha-KIC) is an endogenous metabolite that serves as a key intermediate in leucine catabolism. It is not an FDA-approved drug, but it is available as a dietary supplement for muscle protein synthesis and athletic performance. In research, it is used to study insulin secretion, branched-chain amino acid metabolism, diabetes, and neurological disorders. It has also been investigated for potential therapeutic use in maple syrup urine disease (MSUD). For research use only, not for diagnostic or therapeutic applications. Storage: powder at -20degC for 3 years, 4degC for 2 years; in solvent at -80degC for 1 year.
These protocols are for reference only. InvivoChem does not independently validate these methods.
Physicochemical Properties
Molecular Formula
C6H9NAO3
Molecular Weight
152.12
Exact Mass
152.045
CAS #
4502-00-5
Related CAS #
816-66-0 (Parent)
PubChem CID
4137900
Appearance
White to yellow solid powder
Melting Point
275 °C (dec.)(lit.)
LogP
0
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count
0
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count
3
Rotatable Bond Count
3
Heavy Atom Count
10
Complexity
131
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count
0
SMILES
CC(C)CC(C([O-])=O)=O.[Na+]
InChi Key
IXFAZKRLPPMQEO-UHFFFAOYSA-M
InChi Code
InChI=1S/C6H10O3.Na/c1-4(2)3-5(7)6(8)9;/h4H,3H2,1-2H3,(H,8,9);/q;+1/p-1
Chemical Name
sodium 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate
Synonyms
Sodium 4-methyl-2-oxopentanoate; 2-Ketoisocaproic acid sodium salt
HS Tariff Code
2934.99.9001
Storage

Powder      -20°C    3 years

                     4°C     2 years

In solvent   -80°C    6 months

                  -20°C    1 month

Note: Please store this product in a sealed and protected environment, avoid exposure to moisture.
Shipping Condition
Room temperature (This product is stable at ambient temperature for a few days during ordinary shipping and time spent in Customs)
Solubility Data
Solubility (In Vitro)
May dissolve in DMSO (in most cases), if not, try other solvents such as H2O, Ethanol, or DMF with a minute amount of products to avoid loss of samples
Solubility (In Vivo)
Note: Listed below are some common formulations that may be used to formulate products with low water solubility (e.g. < 1 mg/mL), you may test these formulations using a minute amount of products to avoid loss of samples.

Injection Formulations
(e.g. IP/IV/IM/SC)
Injection Formulation 1: DMSO : Tween 80: Saline = 10 : 5 : 85 (i.e. 100 μL DMSO stock solution 50 μL Tween 80 850 μL Saline)
*Preparation of saline: Dissolve 0.9 g of sodium chloride in 100 mL ddH ₂ O to obtain a clear solution.
Injection Formulation 2: DMSO : PEG300Tween 80 : Saline = 10 : 40 : 5 : 45 (i.e. 100 μL DMSO 400 μLPEG300 50 μL Tween 80 450 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 3: DMSO : Corn oil = 10 : 90 (i.e. 100 μL DMSO 900 μL Corn oil)
Example: Take the Injection Formulation 3 (DMSO : Corn oil = 10 : 90) as an example, if 1 mL of 2.5 mg/mL working solution is to be prepared, you can take 100 μL 25 mg/mL DMSO stock solution and add to 900 μL corn oil, mix well to obtain a clear or suspension solution (2.5 mg/mL, ready for use in animals).
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Injection Formulation 4: DMSO : 20% SBE-β-CD in saline = 10 : 90 [i.e. 100 μL DMSO 900 μL (20% SBE-β-CD in saline)]
*Preparation of 20% SBE-β-CD in Saline (4°C,1 week): Dissolve 2 g SBE-β-CD in 10 mL saline to obtain a clear solution.
Injection Formulation 5: 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin : Saline = 50 : 50 (i.e. 500 μL 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin 500 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 6: DMSO : PEG300 : castor oil : Saline = 5 : 10 : 20 : 65 (i.e. 50 μL DMSO 100 μLPEG300 200 μL castor oil 650 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 7: Ethanol : Cremophor : Saline = 10: 10 : 80 (i.e. 100 μL Ethanol 100 μL Cremophor 800 μL Saline)
Injection Formulation 8: Dissolve in Cremophor/Ethanol (50 : 50), then diluted by Saline
Injection Formulation 9: EtOH : Corn oil = 10 : 90 (i.e. 100 μL EtOH 900 μL Corn oil)
Injection Formulation 10: EtOH : PEG300Tween 80 : Saline = 10 : 40 : 5 : 45 (i.e. 100 μL EtOH 400 μLPEG300 50 μL Tween 80 450 μL Saline)


Oral Formulations
Oral Formulation 1: Suspend in 0.5% CMC Na (carboxymethylcellulose sodium)
Oral Formulation 2: Suspend in 0.5% Carboxymethyl cellulose
Example: Take the Oral Formulation 1 (Suspend in 0.5% CMC Na) as an example, if 100 mL of 2.5 mg/mL working solution is to be prepared, you can first prepare 0.5% CMC Na solution by measuring 0.5 g CMC Na and dissolve it in 100 mL ddH2O to obtain a clear solution; then add 250 mg of the product to 100 mL 0.5% CMC Na solution, to make the suspension solution (2.5 mg/mL, ready for use in animals).
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Oral Formulation 3: Dissolved in PEG400
Oral Formulation 4: Suspend in 0.2% Carboxymethyl cellulose
Oral Formulation 5: Dissolve in 0.25% Tween 80 and 0.5% Carboxymethyl cellulose
Oral Formulation 6: Mixing with food powders


Note: Please be aware that the above formulations are for reference only. InvivoChem strongly recommends customers to read literature methods/protocols carefully before determining which formulation you should use for in vivo studies, as different compounds have different solubility properties and have to be formulated differently.

 (Please use freshly prepared in vivo formulations for optimal results.)
Preparing Stock Solutions 1 mg 5 mg 10 mg
1 mM 6.5738 mL 32.8688 mL 65.7376 mL
5 mM 1.3148 mL 6.5738 mL 13.1475 mL
10 mM 0.6574 mL 3.2869 mL 6.5738 mL

*Note: Please select an appropriate solvent for the preparation of stock solution based on your experiment needs. For most products, DMSO can be used for preparing stock solutions (e.g. 5 mM, 10 mM, or 20 mM concentration); some products with high aqueous solubility may be dissolved in water directly. Solubility information is available at the above Solubility Data section. Once the stock solution is prepared, aliquot it to routine usage volumes and store at -20°C or -80°C. Avoid repeated freeze and thaw cycles.

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In vivo Formulation Calculator (Clear solution)
Step 1: Enter information below (Recommended: An additional animal to make allowance for loss during the experiment)
Step 2: Enter in vivo formulation (This is only a calculator, not the exact formulation for a specific product. Please contact us first if there is no in vivo formulation in the solubility section.)
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Calculation results

Working concentration mg/mL;

Method for preparing DMSO stock solution mg drug pre-dissolved in μL DMSO (stock solution concentration mg/mL). Please contact us first if the concentration exceeds the DMSO solubility of the batch of drug.

Method for preparing in vivo formulation:Take μL DMSO stock solution, next add μL PEG300, mix and clarify, next addμL Tween 80, mix and clarify, next add μL ddH2O,mix and clarify.

(1) Please be sure that the solution is clear before the addition of next solvent. Dissolution methods like vortex, ultrasound or warming and heat may be used to aid dissolving.
             (2) Be sure to add the solvent(s) in order.

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