Which of the following CoA derivatives serves the dual function of channeling carbon units into the TCA cycle for oxidative catabolism and acting as a precursor for lipid biosynthesis?
A) acetoacetyl-CoA
B) acetyl-CoA
C) HMG-CoA
D) malonyl-CoA
E) propionyl-CoA

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Acetyl-CoA is the correct answer because it is a key molecule in metabolism that enters the TCA cycle for energy production and also serves as a building block for the synthesis of fatty acids and other lipids.  Oxidation of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids yields acetyl-CoA. When energy demand is high, the acetyl-CoA will be completely oxidized via the TCA cycle. When energy demand is low, the excess energy can be used to drive reductive biosynthetic reactions such as fatty acid synthesis, which will utilize the acetyl-CoA as the substrate

Which of the Following CoA Derivatives Serves the Dual Function