What is fatty acyl-coa synthetase?

Fatty acyl-CoA synthetase, also known as fatty acid coenzyme A ligase (FACL), is an enzyme that catalyzes the synthesis of fatty acyl-CoA from fatty acids, CoA, and ATP. It is also known as acyl-CoA synthetase (ACS).

The acyl-CoA synthetase enzyme family includes long-chain, medium-chain, and short-chain acyl-CoA synthetases. Each of these enzymes plays a different role in fatty acid metabolism.

Fatty acyl-CoA synthetase is found in many tissues, including liver, adipose tissue, heart, and muscle. In liver, it is involved in the synthesis of triglycerides and phospholipids. In adipose tissue, it plays a role in the synthesis of triacylglycerol for storage. In muscle, it is involved in the breakdown of fatty acids for energy.

Fatty acyl-CoA synthetase is essential for the transport of fatty acids from the cytoplasm into the mitochondria for beta-oxidation. It also plays a role in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism by providing a mechanism for controlling acyl-CoA levels.

Mutations in the genes encoding fatty acyl-CoA synthetase can lead to metabolic disorders such as fatty acid oxidation disorders and insulin resistance. These disorders are characterized by impaired energy metabolism and increased risk for type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and fatty liver disease.