atsetüülCoA

Acetyl-CoA is a molecule that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism. It is an important intermediate in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, ultimately providing energy for cellular functions. Specifically, acetyl-CoA is generated from the oxidation of pyruvate, which is the end product of glycolysis. Pyruvate is converted to acetyl-CoA by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, a multi-enzyme complex.

Once formed, acetyl-CoA enters the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle or the TCA cycle. In this cycle, the acetyl group of acetyl-CoA is completely oxidized to carbon dioxide, releasing electrons that are then used in oxidative phosphorylation to generate ATP, the primary energy currency of the cell. Acetyl-CoA is also involved in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and ketone bodies. It is a central hub in metabolic pathways, connecting catabolic processes (breakdown) with anabolic processes (synthesis). The balance of acetyl-CoA levels is tightly regulated to meet the cell's energy demands and biosynthetic needs.