fatty-acyl-CoA biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of a fatty-acyl-CoA, any derivative of coenzyme A in which the sulfhydryl group is in thiolester linkage with a fatty-acyl group. [ISBN:0198506732]

Fatty-acyl-CoA biosynthesis is a crucial metabolic process that involves the synthesis of fatty-acyl-CoA molecules from fatty acids and coenzyme A (CoA). These molecules are essential intermediates in various metabolic pathways, including beta-oxidation, lipid synthesis, and energy production. The process typically occurs in the cytoplasm of cells and is catalyzed by a series of enzymes.

The first step in fatty-acyl-CoA biosynthesis is the activation of a fatty acid by attaching it to CoA. This is catalyzed by acyl-CoA synthetases, which require ATP and Mg2+. The resulting fatty-acyl-CoA molecule is then available for further metabolism.

There are two main pathways for fatty-acyl-CoA biosynthesis:

1. **De novo synthesis:** This pathway involves the synthesis of fatty acids from smaller precursors, such as acetyl-CoA. This process occurs in the cytoplasm and is catalyzed by fatty acid synthase. The fatty acid synthase complex utilizes a series of reactions to elongate the fatty acid chain, two carbon units at a time.
2. **Acyl-CoA synthetase-mediated activation:** This pathway involves the direct activation of pre-existing fatty acids to form fatty-acyl-CoA molecules. This process is catalyzed by acyl-CoA synthetase enzymes. The fatty acids can be derived from dietary sources or from the breakdown of stored triglycerides.

The fatty-acyl-CoA molecules produced through these pathways serve as intermediates in various metabolic processes:

* **Beta-oxidation:** Fatty-acyl-CoA molecules are oxidized in the mitochondria to generate ATP.
* **Lipid synthesis:** Fatty-acyl-CoA molecules are used as building blocks for the synthesis of triglycerides, phospholipids, and other complex lipids.
* **Energy production:** Fatty-acyl-CoA molecules can be used as fuel sources for energy production in the mitochondria.

Fatty-acyl-CoA biosynthesis is tightly regulated to ensure adequate levels of these essential intermediates. The regulation occurs at multiple levels, including substrate availability, enzyme activity, and hormonal signaling. Dysregulation of fatty-acyl-CoA biosynthesis can contribute to various metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

In summary, fatty-acyl-CoA biosynthesis is a crucial process that involves the synthesis of fatty-acyl-CoA molecules from fatty acids and CoA. These molecules are essential intermediates in various metabolic pathways, including beta-oxidation, lipid synthesis, and energy production. The process is tightly regulated and dysregulation can contribute to metabolic disorders.'
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Proteins (4)

Compounds (31)