Aconitase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the citric acid cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle. It catalyzes the conversion of citrate to isocitrate, facilitating energy production in cells. This process occurs in the mitochondria, where the enzyme helps in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. In addition to its role in energy metabolism, aconitase also functions as a regulatory protein. It can sense cellular iron levels and help maintain iron homeostasis. When iron is abundant, aconitase is active; when iron is scarce, it can bind to iron-responsive elements in mRNA to regulate gene expression.