propionyl-CoA
Propionyl-CoA is a key intermediate in the metabolism of certain fatty acids and amino acids. It is formed from the breakdown of propionate, a three-carbon fatty acid, and is also produced during the metabolism of some branched-chain amino acids. Propionyl-CoA plays a crucial role in energy production and the synthesis of important biomolecules.
In the body, propionyl-CoA can be converted into succinyl-CoA, which enters the Krebs cycle for energy production. This conversion is vital for maintaining energy balance, especially in the liver. Additionally, propionyl-CoA is involved in the synthesis of glucose through gluconeogenesis, highlighting its importance in metabolic pathways.