long-chain fatty acyl-CoA hydrolase activity

Definition

Target type: molecularfunction

Catalysis of the reaction: a long-chain fatty acyl-CoA + H2O = a long-chain fatty acid + CoA + H+. A long-chain fatty acid has an aliphatic tail containing 13 to 22 carbons. [RHEA:67680]

Long-chain fatty acyl-CoA hydrolase activity is a crucial enzymatic process involved in the breakdown of fatty acids. This activity is catalyzed by enzymes known as long-chain acyl-CoA hydrolases, which specifically hydrolyze long-chain fatty acyl-CoA molecules. The reaction involves the cleavage of the thioester bond between a long-chain fatty acid and coenzyme A, resulting in the release of a free fatty acid and coenzyme A. This hydrolysis reaction plays a significant role in various metabolic pathways, including:

1. **Fatty Acid Mobilization:** Long-chain acyl-CoA hydrolases contribute to the mobilization of fatty acids from storage depots, such as adipose tissue. They hydrolyze fatty acyl-CoA molecules that are linked to glycerol in triglycerides, making the fatty acids available for energy production.
2. **β-Oxidation:** In the β-oxidation pathway, which is the primary route for fatty acid degradation, long-chain acyl-CoA hydrolases are involved in the initial activation step. They convert fatty acids into their CoA derivatives, which are then transported into mitochondria for further breakdown.
3. **Lipid Signaling:** Long-chain fatty acyl-CoA hydrolases are also implicated in lipid signaling pathways. They can hydrolyze specific fatty acyl-CoA molecules that act as signaling molecules, influencing cellular processes like inflammation, cell growth, and differentiation.
4. **Lipotoxicity:** In conditions of excessive fatty acid accumulation, long-chain acyl-CoA hydrolases can contribute to lipotoxicity by increasing the levels of free fatty acids. These elevated levels can lead to cell damage and dysfunction.

In summary, long-chain fatty acyl-CoA hydrolase activity plays a vital role in various metabolic processes related to fatty acid metabolism, energy production, lipid signaling, and lipotoxicity. This enzyme activity is essential for maintaining cellular homeostasis and energy balance.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (2)