Acetyl CoA
Definition
Acetyl CoA is a molecule that conveys carbon atoms within the acetyl group to the citric acid cycle (Krebs cycle) to be oxidized for energy production. It plays a crucial role in metabolism by serving as a substrate for various biochemical reactions.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Acetyl CoA is produced from the oxidation of pyruvate, which is derived from glycolysis.
- It serves as an essential substrate for the citric acid cycle, where it combines with oxaloacetate to form citrate.
- The formation of Acetyl CoA marks the transition between glycolysis and the citric acid cycle.
- Acetyl CoA plays a key role in lipid metabolism, including fatty acid synthesis and oxidation.
- Its production involves the enzyme complex pyruvate dehydrogenase, which catalyzes the decarboxylation of pyruvate.
Review Questions
- What metabolic pathway does Acetyl CoA directly feed into?
- Which enzyme complex is responsible for converting pyruvate into Acetyl CoA?
- How does Acetyl CoA contribute to lipid metabolism?
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Related terms
Pyruvate: one sentence definition
Citric Acid Cycle (Krebs Cycle): one sentence definition
Oxaloacetate: one sentence definition
