asetüüliCoA

Acetyl-CoA is a molecule that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism. It is derived from the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and serves as a central hub for energy production. The "acetyl" part refers to a two-carbon group, and "CoA" stands for coenzyme A, a carrier molecule that binds to the acetyl group. This binding forms a high-energy thioester bond, making the acetyl group readily transferable to other molecules.

The primary function of acetyl-CoA is to deliver the acetyl group to the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle. In this cycle, the acetyl group is oxidized, releasing electrons that are then used to generate ATP, the main energy currency of the cell, through oxidative phosphorylation. Acetyl-CoA is also a precursor for the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and ketone bodies. Its formation occurs in various cellular locations, including the cytoplasm and mitochondria, depending on the metabolic pathway involved. For instance, pyruvate, a product of glycolysis, is converted to acetyl-CoA in the mitochondria by the enzyme pyruvate dehydrogenase. The versatility of acetyl-CoA makes it indispensable for maintaining cellular energy homeostasis and synthesizing essential biomolecules.