Ketone bodies are water-soluble molecules—specifically beta-hydroxybutyrate, acetoacetate, and acetone—that are produced by the liver during periods of prolonged carbohydrate restriction or fasting. They serve as an alternative, highly efficient fuel source for the brain, heart, and skeletal muscles when glucose availability is significantly low. The presence of these metabolites indicates a beneficial metabolic shift toward fat utilization, a state known as nutritional ketosis.
Origin
The term is derived from the chemical structure of the compounds, which all contain a ketone functional group. Their clinical recognition dates back to the 19th century in the context of diabetic ketoacidosis, but their role as a therapeutic, clean-burning fuel source is a more recent focus in metabolic health and longevity.
Mechanism
Ketogenesis occurs within the hepatic mitochondria when fatty acid oxidation is high, generating acetyl-CoA faster than it can be processed by the Krebs cycle. Beta-hydroxybutyrate, the most abundant ketone body, not only functions as a primary fuel but also acts as a critical signaling molecule, influencing gene expression and potentially reducing oxidative stress and systemic inflammation.
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