CoA

CoA most commonly refers to Coenzyme A, a central cofactor in intermediary metabolism. Coenzyme A is a small molecule derived from pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). Its active form contains a reactive thiol group that forms thioester bonds with acyl groups, enabling the transfer of acetyl and other acyl units in a wide range of reactions. The molecule’s structure combines a 3'-phosphoadenosine diphosphate moiety linked to pantetheine, terminating in a free thiol. CoA participates in numerous pathways, including the oxidation of acetyl groups in energy metabolism, the citric acid cycle, fatty acid synthesis and degradation, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, amino acids, and lipids. CoA biosynthesis proceeds from pantothenate through a multi-step pathway to produce CoA, a process linked to cellular energy status and metabolic regulation. Disruptions in CoA biosynthesis can lead to metabolic disturbances.

Certificate of Analysis, another common meaning of CoA, is a document issued by manufacturers or suppliers to attest that a product complies with predefined specifications. A CoA typically lists product identification, batch or lot number, applicable test methods, specification limits, test results, and issuing laboratory information. Additional details may include storage conditions and expiry dates. CoAs are used across industries such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and food ingredients to support quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and supplier verification. They are often required by customers before acceptance or shipment and can apply to raw materials, intermediates, or finished goods, aligned with relevant regulatory standards and quality systems.