carnitine O-acetyltransferase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: acetyl-CoA + carnitine = (R)-O-acetylcarnitine + CoA. [EC:2.3.1.7, RHEA:21136]

Carnitine O-acetyltransferase (CAT) activity is crucial for the regulation of fatty acid metabolism. It catalyzes the reversible transfer of an acetyl group from acetyl-CoA to carnitine, forming acetylcarnitine and CoA. This reaction is essential for the transport of activated fatty acids across the mitochondrial membrane, where they undergo beta-oxidation to produce ATP. In essence, CAT acts as a gatekeeper for fatty acid entry into the mitochondria. When acetyl-CoA levels are high, as in the case of high carbohydrate intake or during fasting, CAT promotes the transfer of acetyl groups to carnitine, leading to increased fatty acid oxidation and ATP production. Conversely, when acetyl-CoA levels are low, CAT favors the reverse reaction, releasing acetyl groups into the cytoplasm for use in biosynthesis or other metabolic pathways.'
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Proteins (2)

Compounds (1)