2ketoadipic

2-ketoadipic acid, also known as alpha-ketoadipic acid, is an organic compound with the chemical formula C6H8O5. It is a dicarboxylic acid and a keto acid. 2-ketoadipic acid plays a role as an intermediate in various metabolic pathways, most notably in the catabolism of lysine and tryptophan. In humans, it is a key intermediate in the breakdown of lysine, an essential amino acid.

The metabolic pathway involving 2-ketoadipic acid often proceeds through a series of enzymatic reactions. For instance, in lysine degradation, alpha-aminoadipate-delta-semialdehyde is oxidized to 2-ketoadipic acid. This compound can then be further metabolized. In some organisms, 2-ketoadipic acid can also be involved in the synthesis of other biomolecules. Its presence and metabolic flux are important for cellular energy production and the processing of dietary amino acids. Aberrations in the metabolism of 2-ketoadipic acid can sometimes be associated with certain genetic disorders or metabolic conditions. The compound itself is typically found in biological fluids and tissues.