Acetyl CoA
Acetyl CoA
Acetyl CoA or Acetyl coenzyme A (pronounced as a-set-il ko-en-zime A) is a crucial molecule involved in many biochemical reactions in protein, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. Its main function is to convey the carbon atoms within the acetyl group to the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) to be oxidized for energy production.
Etymology
The term "Acetyl CoA" is derived from its structure. "Acetyl" is a functional group derived from acetic acid (ethanoic acid) with the chemical formula -COCH3. "CoA" stands for "Coenzyme A", a coenzyme, notable for its role in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, and the oxidation of pyruvate in the citric acid cycle.
Biochemical Role
Acetyl CoA plays a key role in metabolism, the process by which cells break down organic materials to produce energy. It is involved in the glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, and the citric acid cycle. In these processes, Acetyl CoA contributes to the production of ATP, the main energy currency of cells.
Related Terms
- Pyruvate: A key intersection in several metabolic pathways.
- Citric Acid Cycle: Also known as the Krebs cycle or the tricarboxylic acid cycle, it is a series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to release stored energy.
- Coenzyme A: A coenzyme, notable for its role in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, and the oxidation of pyruvate in the citric acid cycle.
- Glycolysis: The metabolic pathway that converts glucose into pyruvate.
- Fatty Acid Metabolism: The process consisting of catabolic processes that generate energy, and anabolic processes that create biologically important molecules.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Acetyl CoA
- Wikipedia's article - Acetyl CoA
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