Coenzyme A
Coenzyme A (CoA) is a coenzyme, notable for its role in the synthesis and oxidation of fatty acids, and the oxidation of pyruvate in the citric acid cycle. All genomes sequenced to date encode enzymes that use coenzyme A as a substrate, and around 4% of cellular enzymes use it (or a thioester, such as acetyl-CoA) as a substrate.
Pronunciation
Coenzyme A is pronounced as /koʊˌɛnzaɪm ˈeɪ/.
Etymology
The term "Coenzyme A" comes from its role as a coenzyme (a non-protein chemical compound required for an enzyme's activity) and the "A" signifies its identification as the first such coenzyme discovered.
Structure
Coenzyme A consists of an adenosine 3',5'-bisphosphate, a 4'-phosphopantetheine, and a 3'-phospho-ADP. The molecule carries a net charge of -4 at physiological pH.
Function
Coenzyme A is involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. It acts as a carrier of acyl groups in enzymatic reactions, most notably in the citric acid cycle (or Krebs cycle), where it is involved in the formation of acetyl-CoA.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Coenzyme A
- Wikipedia's article - Coenzyme A
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