acetylgrupp

An acetyl group is a functional group in organic chemistry that consists of a methyl group (CH3) attached to a carbonyl group (C=O). Its chemical formula is CH3CO-. It is often represented by the symbol Ac. The acetyl group is a common structural motif found in many organic molecules, including esters, amides, and ketones. It is derived from acetic acid.

In biochemistry, the acetyl group plays a crucial role in metabolism. Acetyl-CoA is a vital molecule that carries the acetyl group into the citric acid cycle, where it is oxidized to produce energy. The acetylation of proteins, the addition of an acetyl group to a protein molecule, is a common post-translational modification that can alter protein function, localization, and stability. This process is important in regulating gene expression and cellular signaling.

The acetyl group can be attached to various other molecules through ester or amide linkages. For example, aspirin, a common pain reliever, is acetylsalicylic acid, where an acetyl group is attached to salicylic acid. The introduction of an acetyl group can significantly change the properties of a molecule, affecting its solubility, reactivity, and biological activity.