Malonyl meaning

The term malonyl refers to a compound containing a malonyl group, which can be found in various biochemical processes.


Malonyl definitions

Word backwards lynolam
Part of speech The word "malonyl" is an adjective.
Syllabic division ma-lo-nyl
Plural The plural of malonyl is malonyls.
Total letters 7
Vogais (2) a,o
Consonants (4) m,l,n,y

Malonyl is a key metabolite involved in fatty acid synthesis and regulation in living organisms. It plays a crucial role in controlling the balance between lipid storage and energy production within cells.

As a molecule derived from acetyl-CoA, malonyl-CoA serves as a building block for fatty acids. It is generated by the enzyme acetyl-CoA carboxylase and acts as an intermediate in the fatty acid synthesis pathway.

Function of Malonyl

Malonyl plays a dual role in cellular metabolism. On one hand, it is involved in the biosynthesis of fatty acids, which are essential components of cell membranes and energy storage molecules. On the other hand, it is a potent inhibitor of the carnitine palmitoyltransferase system, which regulates the transport of fatty acids into the mitochondria for oxidation.

Regulation of Fatty Acid Metabolism

By inhibiting the carnitine palmitoyltransferase system, malonyl-CoA prevents the breakdown of fatty acids through beta-oxidation. This mechanism allows cells to prioritize fatty acid synthesis for storage or membrane formation over fatty acid oxidation for energy production.

Role in Metabolic Disorders

Imbalances in malonyl-CoA levels have been implicated in various metabolic disorders, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Dysregulation of fatty acid metabolism due to abnormal malonyl concentrations can lead to the accumulation of lipids in tissues and the development of metabolic complications.

In conclusion, malonyl is a critical molecule in the regulation of fatty acid metabolism and energy homeostasis. Its functions in both fatty acid synthesis and oxidation make it a key player in cellular lipid metabolism and metabolic health.


Malonyl Examples

  1. The enzyme malonyl-CoA decarboxylase plays a key role in fatty acid metabolism.
  2. Malonyl groups are often used as building blocks in organic chemistry synthesis.
  3. The malonyl group is an important intermediate in the biosynthesis of fatty acids.
  4. Malonyl-CoA is a precursor for the biosynthesis of polyketides.
  5. Malonyl units are commonly found in the structures of natural products such as plant pigments.
  6. The inhibition of malonyl-CoA decarboxylase can impact cellular energy metabolism.
  7. Malonylation is a post-translational modification that can regulate protein function.
  8. The malonyl-CoA pathway is involved in the production of flavonoids in plants.
  9. Malonyl groups can serve as acyl donors in enzymatic reactions.
  10. The malonyl-CoA pool in cells can be dynamically regulated in response to metabolic demands.


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  • Updated 02/04/2024 - 16:42:35