Glucogenic and Ketogenic Amino Acids

Amino acids can be classified as glucogenic, ketogenic, or both, based on which of the seven intermediates are produced during their catabolism (Fig. 1).

A. Glucogenic amino acids

Amino acids whose catabolism yields pyruvate or one of the intermediates of the TCA cycle are termed glucogenic. Because these intermediates are substrates for gluconeogenesis), they can give rise to the net synthesis of glucose in the liver and kidney.

B. Ketogenic amino acids

Amino acids whose catabolism yields either acetoacetate or one of its precursors (acetyl CoA or acetoacetyl CoA) are termed ketogenic (Fig.1).

Acetoacetate is one of the ketone bodies, which also include 3-hydroxybutyrate and acetone. Leucine and lysine are the only exclusively ketogenic amino acids found in proteins. Their carbon skeletons are not substrates for gluconeogenesis and, therefore, cannot give rise to the net synthesis of glucose.

Figure.1: Classification of amino acids. [Note: Some amino acids can become conditionally essential. For example, supplementation with glutamine and arginine has been shown to improve outcomes in patients with trauma,  postoperative infections, and immunosuppression.]