The research progress of α-ketoglutarate in osteoarthritis

α-Ketoglutarate (AKG) is a key intermediate in the tricarboxylic acid, (TCA) cycle. AKG is not only involved in cellular energy metabolism but also plays important roles in a variety of physiological and pathological processes such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, immune regulation, and maintenance of mitochondrial function, which have garnered widespread attention. Many experiments have shown that there is a certain correlation between AKG and OA. The purpose of this paper is to comprehensively review the literature to elucidate the mechanisms of AKG in alleviating osteoarthritis (OA), such as autophagy, gut microbiota, cellular senescence, and ferroptosis. We aim to provide theoretical references and evidence for the use of AKG in the prevention and treatment of OA.