MMCoA

MMCoA refers to the methylmalonyl-CoA thioesterase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids and odd-chain fatty acids. Specifically, it catalyzes the hydrolysis of methylmalonyl-CoA to propionate and CoA. This reaction is a key step in the breakdown of valine, isoleucine, threonine, and methionine, as well as certain fatty acids.

The importance of MMCoA stems from its involvement in preventing the accumulation of toxic intermediates. Inborn errors of metabolism affecting the enzymes responsible for methylmalonyl-CoA metabolism, such as methylmalonyl-CoA mutase, lead to methylmalonic acidemia. While MMCoA itself is not directly mutated in these conditions, its function is indirectly affected by the buildup of its substrate.

MMCoA also plays a role in the regulation of cellular energy metabolism. By influencing the availability of CoA and the production of propionate, it can impact pathways like the citric acid cycle. Research into MMCoA has implications for understanding metabolic disorders and potential therapeutic targets.