Formation of Acetyl Co-enzyme A

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Author:

Jon Maber

Subject:

Science and Technology

Institution Name:

Terra Vivida

Collection:

Terra Vivida

Grade Level:

Secondary, Post-secondary

Abstract:

This page explains the formation of Acetyl Co-enzyme A which is key to the synthesis of many organic molecules in cells. An acetyl group is a simple two-carbon-atom molecule which is sufficiently reactive to make it possible to use as a building block for larger carbon skeletons.

A large number of molecules that are synthesised in cells are built from two-carbon acetyl groups. An acetyl group derives from ethanoate (acetate) and is named acetyl when it forms a group within a larger molecule. Instead of using free acetate molecules the cell 'activates' the molecule by attaching it to Coenzyme A (CoA).

The acetyl group can derive from pyruvate (and ultimately from monosaccharides if that is the main 'food' for the cell). The two processes of oxidising/decarboxylating pyruvate and attaching the resulting acetyl group to CoA are coupled.

Oxidative decarboxylation is catalyzed by the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. It is a multimeric assembly of three kinds of enzyme that implements the process in four steps. The animation shows all four steps in sequence and data sheets follow.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English, Spanish

Material Type:

Activities and Labs, Simulations

Media Format:

Graphics/Photos, Downloadable docs, Video

Technical Requirements:

Java

Conditions of Use:

Custom Permissions
Facilities are available for students and teachers to annotate the materials and therefore incorporate the web site into Virtual Learning Environments, Course Management Systems or other web sites. Access to materials is totally free and anyone who signs up can make personal annotations within the pages, also with no charge

Copyright Holder:

Jon Maber 2005