acetoacetaatCoA

Acetoacetate-CoA is a key intermediate in the metabolism of fatty acids and ketones. It is formed from acetoacetate through the action of the enzyme acetoacetate-CoA ligase, which catalyzes the ATP-dependent conversion of acetoacetate to acetoacetyl-CoA. Acetoacetyl-CoA is a thioester of coenzyme A (CoA) and serves as a precursor for the synthesis of ketone bodies, which are important energy sources during fasting or starvation. In the liver, acetoacetyl-CoA is further metabolized to beta-hydroxybutyrate-CoA and then to acetoacetate and acetone, which are released into the bloodstream and used by peripheral tissues as an alternative fuel source. Acetoacetyl-CoA is also involved in the synthesis of various lipids and fatty acids, as well as in the regulation of cellular metabolism. Its metabolism is tightly regulated to ensure the proper balance of energy production and utilization in the body.