coenzyme a
Definition
- Noun:
- A coenzyme present in all living cells; essential to the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and some amino acids: Coenzyme A is a crucial molecule that acts as a helper for enzymes, facilitating numerous biochemical reactions involved in breaking down and building up nutrients for energy and cellular function.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Acetyl-CoA, a molecule formed by attaching an acetyl group to coenzyme A, is a central intermediate in metabolism.
- The synthesis of fatty acids requires coenzyme A to activate the precursor molecules.
- A deficiency in pantothenic acid, a vitamin used to synthesize coenzyme A, can impair energy production.
Advanced Usage
- "Activated carrier": Coenzyme A often functions as an activated carrier of specific chemical groups (like acetyl or acyl groups) within metabolic pathways.
- In the citric acid cycle, coenzyme A carries acetyl groups to be oxidized for energy.
Variants and Related Words
- CoA (n): A common abbreviation for coenzyme A.
- The reaction yields acetyl-CoA.
- Acyl-CoA (n): A class of molecules formed when a fatty acid chain is attached to coenzyme A, crucial for fat metabolism.
- Acyl-CoA synthetase is the enzyme that forms acyl-CoA.
Synonyms
- Metabolic cofactor: A substance that assists in metabolic reactions.
- Carrier molecule: A molecule that transports chemical groups during reactions.
Related Phrases
- Coenzyme A synthesis: The biochemical pathway that produces coenzyme A from its components, including pantothenic acid (vitamin B5).
- The study focused on the regulation of coenzyme A synthesis in the liver.
Noun
-
a coenzyme present in all living cells; essential to metabolism of carbohydrates and fats and some amino acids
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