Requirements: 1. Maintain the original format and structure. 2. The translation should be accurate, fluent, and natural. 3. Maintain professionalism and consistency. 4. Only return the translation result; do not add any explanations. Original text: Our bodies are like precision machines that require energy to function and need maintenance to stay in good condition. AKG (Alpha-Ketoglutarate) acts as the fuel and protective agent for these machines. 1. **Involved in cellular energy metabolism and amino acid synthesis**: AKG plays a role in both cellular energy metabolism and the synthesis of amino acids. Amino acids are the fundamental building blocks for cells and are essential for repairing tissues, as well as for constructing muscles, skin, and other tissues. 2. **Antioxidant effects**: The body contains substances called free radicals, which are highly active and unstable. When the amount of free radicals exceeds a certain level, they can become uncontrollable and cause widespread damage to biomolecules through oxidative stress, accelerating the aging of cells and tissues. AKG acts as a free radical scavenger, helping the body to eliminate excess free radicals and maintain balance, thus protecting cells from damage. 3. **Improves mitochondrial function**: Mitochondria are the energy-producing factories of cells. As we age, their function declines, leading to cellular aging and death. AKG can enhance mitochondrial function, improving energy metabolism and helping cells to maintain a youthful and healthy state. 4. **Slows down the aging process**: A study in 2021 showed that people who took AKG supplements for an average of 7 months had their biological age reduced by 8 years. This is like pressing a “reverse button” on the body, making it appear younger. The effects were more pronounced in those with greater signs of aging, and men appeared younger than women [1]. 5. **Prolongs lifespan**: AKG can also extend lifespan by inhibiting certain biological processes. In one study, AKG increased the lifespan of C. elegans (a small worm) by 50% [2]. In another study, elderly mice that were supplemented with AKG lived longer, got sick less, and appeared healthier [3]. This is like providing these mice with a “fountain of youth,” allowing them to remain vibrant in old age. In summary, AKG is like a magical helper that may help us live longer and healthier. [References] [1] DEMIDENKO O, BARARDO D, BUDOVSKII V, et al. Rejuvant®, a potential life-extending compound formulation with alpha-ketoglutarate and vitamins, conferred an average 8 year reduction in biological aging, after an average of 7 months of use, in the TruAge DNA methylation test [J]. Aging (Albany NY), 2021, 13(22): 24485-99. [2] Naeini SH, Mavaddatiyan L, Kalkhoran ZR, Taherkhani S, Talkhabi M. Alpha-ketoglutarate as a potent regulator for lifespan and healthspan: Evidences and perspectives. Exp Gerontol. 2023 May;175:112154. [3] Asadi Shahmirzadi A, Edgar D, Liao CY, et al. Alpha-Ketoglutarate, an Endogenous Metabolite, Extends Lifespan and Compresses Morbidity in Aging Mice. Cell Metabolism 2020;32(3):447-456.e6.