Fatty acid synthesis is, in biochemistry, the process of creating fatty acids. It relies on specific building blocks and enzymes.
The Process Explained
Fatty acid synthesis involves the following key elements:
- Acetyl-CoA: This molecule provides the carbon atoms needed to build the fatty acid chain.
- NADPH: This molecule acts as a reducing agent, providing the necessary electrons for the synthesis reactions.
- Fatty Acid Synthases: These enzymes catalyze the series of reactions that elongate the fatty acid chain.
In simple terms, fatty acid synthesis combines acetyl-CoA molecules, using NADPH as an energy source, to create long chains of fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential components of lipids, which play numerous roles in the body, including energy storage and cell membrane structure. This process is primarily cytosolic in location.
