Axona mechanism of action

Axona provides medium-chain triglycerides to the body that can be metabolized into ketone bodies, which may be utilized by the brain as an alternative source of fuel1,2

  • Medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) have long been known to be ketogenic because they contain medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) that do not require activation to enter mitochondria1,3
  • MCTs in Axona are metabolized in the liver to form ketone bodies. These ketone bodies readily cross the blood-brain barrier to provide fuel for starving neurons1

 

Metabolism of Axona2,4

The metabolism of Axona interactive chart 1 2 3 4 5
1. Gut
MCTs in Axona are emulsified in the gut lumen, where gastrointestinal lipases hydrolyze them to MCFAs.
2. Portal vein
MCFAs are absorbed directly into the portal vein.
3. Liver
In the liver, MCFAs are quickly oxidized. Because MCFAs enter the liver rapidly, a large oral dose of MCTs will result in sustained hyperketonemia.
4. Bloodstream
The liver cannot use ketone bodies, so they are released into the circulation to be used by other tissues.
5. Cerebral neuron
Ketone bodies cross the blood-brain barrier and address diminished cerebral glucose metabolism.