Malonyl-CoA decarboxylase

An enzyme involved in fatty acid metabolism

Malonyl-CoA decarboxylase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism. It catalyzes the decarboxylation of malonyl-CoA to produce acetyl-CoA and carbon dioxide. This reaction is important in the context of energy production and lipid biosynthesis.

Function

Malonyl-CoA decarboxylase is involved in the regulation of fatty acid oxidation and lipogenesis. By converting malonyl-CoA to acetyl-CoA, it helps to modulate the levels of malonyl-CoA, which is a potent inhibitor of carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT1), the enzyme responsible for the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for oxidation. Thus, malonyl-CoA decarboxylase indirectly influences the rate of fatty acid oxidation by controlling the availability of malonyl-CoA.

Structure

The enzyme is a homotetramer, meaning it is composed of four identical subunits. Each subunit contains an active site where the decarboxylation reaction occurs. The structure of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase allows it to bind to its substrate, malonyl-CoA, and facilitate the removal of a carboxyl group, releasing carbon dioxide and forming acetyl-CoA.

Clinical Significance

Deficiency in malonyl-CoA decarboxylase activity can lead to a rare metabolic disorder known as malonyl-CoA decarboxylase deficiency. This condition is characterized by the accumulation of malonyl-CoA, which can result in developmental delay, cardiomyopathy, and other metabolic complications. Understanding the function and regulation of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase is important for developing potential therapeutic strategies for this disorder.

Regulation

The activity of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase is regulated by various factors, including the availability of its substrate, malonyl-CoA, and the energy status of the cell. In conditions where energy is required, such as during fasting or exercise, the activity of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase is upregulated to promote fatty acid oxidation and energy production.

Related pages

• Fatty acid metabolism
• Acetyl-CoA
• Carnitine palmitoyltransferase I
• Lipogenesis

• Malonyl-CoA decarboxylase
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