Lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid, [12:0], is found in coconut oil.


a. Draw fatty acyl lauric acid activated for β oxidation.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the structure of lauric acid, which is a saturated fatty acid with the formula C₁₂H₂₄O₂.
2. Understand that activation of a fatty acid for β-oxidation involves converting it into an acyl-CoA derivative.
3. Draw the structure of lauric acid, showing the carboxylic acid group (COOH) at one end and a long hydrocarbon chain (CH₃(CH₂)₁₀) at the other.
4. Replace the hydrogen of the carboxylic acid group with coenzyme A (CoA) to form lauroyl-CoA, the activated form of lauric acid.
5. Ensure the structure shows the thioester bond between the carbonyl carbon of lauric acid and the sulfur atom of CoA, indicating the formation of lauroyl-CoA.

Key Concepts

Fatty Acyl CoA

Fatty acyl CoA is a fatty acid that has been activated by the addition of coenzyme A (CoA). This activation is crucial for the subsequent β-oxidation process, as it allows the fatty acid to enter the mitochondria for energy production. The formation of fatty acyl CoA involves the enzyme acyl-CoA synthetase, which catalyzes the reaction using ATP.

β-Oxidation

β-oxidation is the metabolic process by which fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondria to generate acetyl-CoA, NADH, and FADH2. This process occurs in a series of enzymatic reactions that sequentially remove two-carbon units from the fatty acid chain. It is essential for energy production, especially during periods of fasting or intense exercise.

Saturated Fatty Acids

Saturated fatty acids are types of fatty acids that contain no double bonds between carbon atoms in their hydrocarbon chain, meaning they are 'saturated' with hydrogen atoms. Lauric acid, specifically, is a 12-carbon saturated fatty acid found in coconut oil. Its structure influences its physical properties and metabolic pathways, including its role in energy production through β-oxidation.