The fatty acid synthase complex is a multi-enzyme protein that catalyzes the synthesis of long-chain saturated fatty acids from acetyl-CoA and malonyl-CoA substrates in the presence of NADPH. It plays a crucial role in lipid metabolism and is a target for cancer and obesity treatment due to its involvement in cellular proliferation and energy storage.

Fatty Acid Synthase Complex

Multi-enzyme protein

Synthesis of long-chain saturated fatty acids

Acetyl-CoA is a central metabolic intermediate that plays a crucial role in energy production and biosynthetic pathways by linking glycolysis and the citric acid cycle with lipid and amino acid metabolism. It serves as a key substrate for the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and ketone bodies, highlighting its importance in both energy storage and utilization processes.

Acetyl-CoA

Malonyl-CoA substrates

NADPH is a crucial cofactor in anabolic reactions, providing the reducing power necessary for biosynthetic processes, such as fatty acid and nucleotide synthesis. It is primarily generated through the pentose phosphate pathway and is essential for maintaining cellular redox balance and antioxidant defense mechanisms.

NADPH

Lipid metabolism encompasses the processes involved in the synthesis and degradation of lipids in cells, crucial for energy storage, membrane structure, and signaling. It includes pathways like fatty acid oxidation and synthesis, cholesterol metabolism, and the regulation of lipid levels in the body, impacting health conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome.

Lipid Metabolism

Target for cancer treatment

Target for obesity treatment

Cellular proliferation is the process by which cells grow and divide to produce more cells, playing a crucial role in development, tissue repair, and immune responses. Dysregulation of this process can lead to diseases such as cancer, where cells proliferate uncontrollably.

Cellular Proliferation

Energy storage is the capture of energy produced at one time for use at a later time, enabling a balance between energy supply and demand. It plays a critical role in integrating renewable energy sources into the grid, enhancing energy security, and improving the efficiency and reliability of energy systems.

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