Acetyl-CoA

Acetyl-CoA or Acetyl coenzyme A is a molecule that participates in many biochemical reactions in protein, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Its main function is to deliver the acetyl group to the Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle) to be oxidized for energy production.

Structure

Acetyl-CoA is composed of an acetyl group attached to coenzyme A (CoA). The acetyl group (CH3CO) is derived from all three types of fuel molecules: carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Coenzyme A, on the other hand, is a complex molecule that is made from pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP).

Function

The primary role of Acetyl-CoA in the body is to convey the carbon atoms within the acetyl group to the Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle) to be oxidized for energy production. This is crucial for the process of cellular respiration, where cells break down glucose to produce ATP, the cell's main energy currency.

In addition to its role in the Citric Acid Cycle, Acetyl-CoA is also involved in many other biochemical reactions. For instance, it is used in the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol, and it is a substrate in the glycolytic pathway.

Production

Acetyl-CoA is produced during the second step of aerobic cellular respiration, known as pyruvate decarboxylation. This process occurs in the mitochondria, where pyruvate molecules (produced from glucose during glycolysis) are oxidized to produce Acetyl-CoA.

Role in Disease

Abnormalities in the production or utilization of Acetyl-CoA can lead to a variety of metabolic disorders. For example, a deficiency in the enzymes that produce Acetyl-CoA can lead to a buildup of toxic metabolites in the body, resulting in conditions such as Maple Syrup Urine Disease or Propionic Acidemia.

See Also

• Citric Acid Cycle
• Glycolysis
• Maple Syrup Urine Disease
• Propionic Acidemia

Acetyl-CoA Resources
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