Biochemistry: Fatty Acid Synthesis

Overview of Malonyl-CoA Production

• Fatty acid synthesis begins with the conversion of acetyl-CoA to malonyl-CoA.
• This process is catalyzed by the enzyme acetyl-CoA carboxylase.

Enzyme Details

• Acetyl-CoA carboxylase is a multienzyme complex consisting of:
  • Biotin carboxylase
  • Carboxyl transferase
  • Biotin carrier protein

Reaction Requirements

• The carboxylation reaction requires:
  • ATP as an energy source
  • Biotin, a B vitamin necessary for enzyme function

Reaction Process

• The reaction occurs in two main steps:
  • Step 1: Catalyzed by biotin carboxylase, biotin is carboxylated, consuming ATP.
  • Step 2: Carboxyl transferase catalyzes the transfer of the carboxyl group from biotin to acetyl-CoA, resulting in malonyl-CoA formation.

Regulatory Role

• Acetyl-CoA carboxylase plays a crucial role in regulating fatty acid synthesis, influencing metabolic pathways related to lipid production.