key term - Acetyl coenzyme A (acetyl CoA)

Definition

Acetyl Coenzyme A, commonly known as Acetyl CoA, is a central molecule in metabolism that carries acetyl groups for chemical reactions in the cell. It plays a pivotal role in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into energy.

Related terms

Citric Acid Cycle:

A series of chemical reactions used by all aerobic organisms to release stored energy through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA.

Glycolysis:

The process of breaking down glucose into pyruvate, producing small amounts of energy and providing substrates for other metabolic pathways, including the production of acetyl CoA.

Oxidative Phosphorylation: A metabolic pathway that uses energy released by the oxidation of nutrients to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP), where acetyl CoA's breakdown products are further utilized