Acetyl-CoA



Acetyl coenzyme A (Ac-CoA) is a central molecule especially in the metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and other substances. It is activated acetic acid to which coenzyme A is attached via a sulfur atom. In its excess, when the capacity of the citrate cycle is exceeded, it is a substrate for ketogenesis.

Acetyl coenzyme A is produced during the decarbocylation of pyruvate by the irreversible PDH reaction, a large amount is produced during the β-oxidation of fatty acids, it is also produced during the degradation of some amino acids. It can be formed by the direct enzymatic connection of acetyl and coenzyme A with the consumption of ATP.

It is a macrogenic compund, the macroergic bond energy is 32 kJ/mol.

Related articles

 * Citrate cycle
 * β-oxidation
 * Pyruvate
 * Keto bodies
 * Glycolysis

Reference

 * DUŠKA, František and Jan TRNKA. Biochemistry in context Part I - basics of energy metabolism. 1st edition. Prague: Karolinum, 2006. p. 25.  ISBN 80-246-1116-3.